A new name, a new chapter: Lizwi Choir launches on Freedom Day
An account of the relaunch, the choice of Freedom Day, and the singers stepping into ownership of their own work.
News
The story, told by others.
A curated record of the public reporting on our journey. We are grateful to every journalist who has taken the time to listen.
The Carte Blanche investigation
The story began with a Carte Blanche investigation broadcast on Sunday 19 April 2026 — the segment that opened the questions that shaped the weeks since. Watch it below, or read more about the programme and the segment on our background page.
A featured piece
The warmest piece of coverage we have had so far — a profile of the relaunch, written with care by Brent Lindeque at Good Things Guy.
The wider coverage
In the days that followed the broadcast, the story was picked up across the South African press. The pieces below are the wider record. For ongoing coverage, a Google search will show the most current results.
These links go to third-party publications. Their words, our gratitude.
22 April 2026
The Citizen
Thanda Choir management admits financial communication failures after Carte Blanche exposé
The original management's formal response, including an acknowledgement of shortcomings in financial communication and a commitment to an independent audit.
21 April 2026
IOL
Exploitation claims rock Thanda Choir as founders demand independence
A fuller account of the financial allegations, the original management's initial responses, and the founding members' stated position.
20 April 2026
Imbizo Magazine
From Harmony to Hard Questions: What the Thanda Choir Story Teaches the Creative Sector
A reflection on what this moment means for young creatives across South Africa.
20 April 2026
Bona Magazine
Thanda Choir original founders break away from managers
An account of the founding members' break with the original management.
20 April 2026
The Citizen
Thanda Choir members reclaim full ownership of ensemble after Carte Blanche exposé
Coverage of the founding members' statement on the decision to represent themselves.
20 April 2026
IOL
Disturbing abuse allegations against Thanda Choir spark national uproar
The morning after the broadcast — a summary of the central allegations and the early public response.
19 April 2026
Carte Blanche · M-Net
"Choir Captured" — the broadcast
Presented by Claire Mawisa and produced by Jo Munnik. Available behind the paywall on DStv Catch Up, M-Net channel 101.
18 April 2026
The South African
Carte Blanche coming up: Harmony or hustle?
The broadcast teaser that signalled what was coming.
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For journalists
If you are a journalist working on this story, we would welcome the conversation. Please reach us at press@lizwichoir.com or visit our Press page for our contacts and quick facts.