Makhadzi expresses regret to the deaf community

Ndivhudzannyi Ralivhona, also known as Makhadzi, apologises after being hauled by the deaf community.

During the filming of her latest music video, the award-winning singer came under fire for insulting sign language as a show of contempt.

The digital learning portal for sign language in South Africa uploaded the video and chastised her on Instagram.

“By doing the sign gestures, Makhadzi did not only mock our language or disrespect our culture, but she taught her million fans that ‘this is normal’, which is unacceptable in deaf culture. Deaf people don’t accept sign gestures. Making a mockery of a language so rich in history and culture is making a mockery of its people and the struggles they have endured,” sign language mentor Dieumercy Asan said.

In response, Makhadzi apologised and stated she didn’t want to offend anyone.

“There are many things that happen without knowing how people will take it. As someone who is in the entertainment industry this was part of acting without knowing how it will affect other people. However, if people are affected by a certain act, I must understand and accept I was wrong.”

“I am willing to send a public apology, I didn’t mean to hurt anyone. I had no intention to hurt anyone from the deaf community. As someone who has been bullied, I understand how painful it is and that others didn’t take what I did well. I’m taking accountability for that. Hence, I’m willing to send a public apology, but I do apologise for that, I had no bad intention. I will release a statement next week,” the music star said.