Mama Joy Responds to Gayton McKenzie’s Decision to Cut Superfan Funding
Mama Joy Chauke, widely regarded as South Africa’s greatest sports fan, has responded to the decision by Gayton McKenzie, the newly appointed Minister of Sports, Culture, and Arts, to discontinue payments for trips taken by superfans.
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Gayton McKenzie Halts Superfan Trips
Just days ago, Minister McKenzie announced on X (formerly Twitter) that the government will no longer fund trips for superfans like Mama Joy. Instead, the funds will be redirected to support struggling athletes and artists.
“I have stopped all trips for super fans. We have athletes and artists who are struggling to raise money to attend sporting events and exhibitions. How do we justify paying for fans? We shall no longer be paying for these trips and will use that money where it’s needed the most,” said McKenzie.
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Mama Joy Diplomatically Responds to Gayton McKenzie
In response, Mama Joy, whose real name is Joy Chauke, told SowetanLive that she is unbothered by the minister’s decision, as he did not specifically mention her name. She explained that she would not comment on the directive, stating:
“There is nothing I can say about what he said. He didn’t say my name, and others can comment on what he said, but I will not. I am not scared of anything, but I won’t say anything.”
Mama Joy suggested that she was not among the superfans who were receiving taxpayer-funded trips to various events.
What he said is what he said, but he didn’t mention my name. If my name was there, then I would be able to answer for myself. Maybe they are paying those super fans; I don’t know. It can happen,” Mama Joy said.
Mama Joy’s Impressive Sporting Attendance
Over the years, Mama Joy has been a fixture at numerous sporting events, including the Qatar Soccer World Cup, the New Zealand Soccer World Cup (Ladies), the Rugby World Cup in France, and the Cricket World Cup in India.