Gospel executive Ayanda Ncwane is at the centre of a social media debate after a video clip of her led users to compare her to preachers Benny Hinn and Shepherd Bushiri, Bona reported.
Ayanda is the widow of the late gospel singer Sfiso Ncwane. She is also the CEO of Ncwane Communications.
According to Bona, the online reactions mixed humour, nostalgia and criticism. Some users said the clip reminded them of the style and spectacle linked to well-known charismatic ministries.
One user called Ayanda a “brand-new Bushiri”. Another user jokingly asked whether “Ps Benny Hinn is still alive”.
A user on X with the handle @ScuderiaRed_ posted on 1 October 2026: “If you don’t know Ps Benny Hinn, you’re a newly born again Christian.”
Bona said the comments seemed to draw on how familiar people are with the public image of the two preachers. The publication said the posts did not suggest that Ayanda is linked to either man.
Other users were more critical. They used the clip to raise questions about money, fame and how some churches present themselves.
Some of the reactions asked about the money side of religious ministries. A few posts mentioned figures such as R700,000 a month.
Bona said these posts were part of the online chatter only. The publication said they should not be seen as proof of Ayanda’s personal earnings or the finances of any church.
Benny Hinn is a televangelist known around the world for healing ministries and large Christian events. Bona reported that he still has ministry events scheduled in 2026.
Shepherd Bushiri is a pastor born in Malawi. He built a large following through his church and ministry work in South Africa and other countries.
According to Bona, both men are common reference points when South Africans talk online about charismatic and prosperity churches. Users often mention their names when they see religious content they think is theatrical.
The publication said many of the comments about the clip seemed to be light jokes. Others used the moment to question some practices in charismatic churches.
Bona said the comparisons were mostly part of the online talk around the video. They did not show that Ayanda is copying the ministry of either preacher.
The report said short clips like this one can quickly spread beyond their first setting. Viewers often add their own views on churches, pastors and wealth.
Source: this article is based on reporting by Bona. Image: Bona. Written with the help of AI and published by the Tzaneen Voice Entertainment desk. See our Editorial Standards.
Rirhandzu Baloyi writes about entertainment for Tzaneen Voice. Rirhandzu covers South African music, film, TV, streaming, awards and celebrity news, from amapiano and local soapies to Showmax and Netflix releases. Stories stick to what happened, who was involved and when fans can watch or listen.