Maheba steps in to replace sick Noah at Mamas
SOUTH African comedian Trevor Noah will no longer host the MTV Africa Music Awards (Mamas) tonight.
Instead, the show will go on with presenter Bonang Maheba taking over.
The South African comedian, who is now based in the United States, released a statement yesterday saying that due to an infection he would not be coming home for the Mamas.
Noah explained that he has been fighting an upper respiratory and ear infection for the whole week and medication hadn’t helped.
“Due to the infection and strain on my vocal chords the doctor has ordered me to rest. I desperately wish I could dismiss the doctor but the added risk of flying means the decision would be highly irresponsible and may cause further damage.”
The awards taking place tonight in Johannesburg at the Dome has seen the Eastern Cape’s top DJ, Black Coffee, nominated for artist of the year.
He has also received a nomination in the best male artist category alongside fellow South African AKA, Wizkid, Patoranking (Nigeria) and Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania).
South African house group Mi Casa, whose lead singer J Something was educated at Graeme College in Grahamstown, has also received a nomination for the best group award, alongside Navy Kenzo (Tanzania), R2bees (Ghana), Sauti Sol (Kenya) and Toofan (Togo).
Other Eastern Cape artists nominated for Mamas awards include Emtee and Nathi.
They have both been nominated for the best breakthrough act, alongside Babes Wodumo, Nasty C, TekNo, Franko, Falz, YCee and Simi.
Emtee and Nathi were this year’s biggest winners at the South African Music Awards and at the Metro FM Awards.
The line-up of performers at the event includes Cassper Nyovest‚ Babes Wodumo‚ Kwesta‚ Nigerian songstress Yemi Alade and American rapper Future.
Commenting on behalf of the Mamas, Alex Okosi said they were disappointed that Noah would not be able to host the show today.
“We are naturally disappointed that Trevor will be unable to join us on Saturday, but his health is of paramount importance and we wish him a speedy recovery,” said Okosi.
He said the show would go on with Matheba as the host.
“We are thrilled that Bonang Matheba, one of Africa’s most inspiring and luminous media personalities will be hosting the MTV Africa Music Awards this Saturday.
“With her extensive presenting experience, personal charm and beauty, Bonang is going to make a fabulous host for Mama 2016 and we look forward to an amazing awards show with her at the helm,” said Okosi.
The ceremony will air live on MTV (DStv channel 130) and MTV Base (DStv channel 322) from 9pm. — poliswap@dispatch.co.za well-known