South African dancer and entertainer Matome Robert Mahlatse Thoka, popularly known as Limpopo Boy, has been removed from the lineup of the inaugural Creators Assembly 2026 in Botswana, following controversy surrounding a private video that circulated widely online.
Also see: Limpopo Boy debunks alleged exploitative school contracts claims
The programme change was announced by the event organisers on Monday, 10 August 2026, in a statement issued in partnership with sponsor BBS Bank. The organisers confirmed that Limpopo Boy would no longer be part of the event and said a replacement was being considered.
Limpopo Boy removed from Botswana event
The Creators Assembly is scheduled to bring together creatives, industry professionals and other stakeholders to promote Botswana’s creative economy.
While the announcement came shortly after the private footage became a major topic on social media, organisers did not explicitly state that the video was the reason for Limpopo Boy’s removal.
Their statement instead said that a suitable replacement was being considered and that further details would be communicated in due course. The organisers also reiterated their commitment to the event’s broader mandate and Botswana’s creative economy.
BBS Bank, which is supporting the initiative, also reaffirmed its backing of the Creators Assembly.
It is alleged that brands are distancing themselves from Limpopo boy over the recent controversy. His choreographer job working with children is also reportedly at risk. pic.twitter.com/lYN2xpE1VG
— TheeCandid✌🏾 (@khal_juniier) August 10, 2026
Management condemns circulation of private footage
The decision comes after private footage allegedly involving Limpopo Boy circulated across social media.
His management has described the footage as unauthorised and malicious, and has called on members of the public to stop sharing it.
The team has reportedly engaged legal representatives, cybersecurity experts and online platforms in an effort to investigate the alleged breach and have the material removed.
The controversy has also raised broader questions about digital privacy, consent and the consequences of intimate material being shared without permission.
Also see: Minister Zizi Kodwa responds to Limpopo Boy’s dance studio request
Public reaction divided
The fallout has sparked a heated debate online, with reactions divided.
Some social media users believe Limpopo Boy should face professional consequences following the controversy, while others have criticised what they view as an example of cancel culture moving too quickly, particularly when the circumstances surrounding the private footage remain disputed.
Others have raised concerns about Limpopo Boy’s work as a choreographer and his involvement in projects involving children, adding another layer to the online discussion.
However, claims circulating on social media should be treated with caution unless they are supported by verified information or statements from the people involved.
What if he was trapped by the married couple so he could lose his sponsors ?! https://t.co/1jvtAoP89I pic.twitter.com/WIbjsevAZj
— SINETHEMBA. (@sine_solomon) August 11, 2026
I personally think this was an unnecessary move from the brand🤷♂️ https://t.co/at8qshA4Q7
— Sakhile (@sk_bliss) August 11, 2026
It takes years, sweat and salt to rise/build a brand. Yet it takes a moment of madness to fall. Every brand went through its struggles to rise. When we fall we sadly fall alone. No brand wants to bear cost for our lack of foresight and the lust of our own flesh. We must be wise. https://t.co/S4WBIC9FCp
— Agatha’s Son (@TakuraChamuka) August 11, 2026
Privacy concerns take centre stage
Beyond the debate surrounding Limpopo Boy, the incident has highlighted the difficult intersection between celebrity culture, social media and privacy.
The rapid spread of private material can have consequences that extend far beyond the original incident, including professional setbacks and reputational damage.
Limpopo Boy’s management has maintained that the focus should also be on how the footage was obtained and distributed, while pursuing avenues to have it removed.
A social media post discussing the controversy can be viewed on X.
A developing story
For now, Limpopo Boy’s removal from the Creators Assembly is a confirmed professional consequence, but the organisers have not publicly said that the leaked footage prompted the decision.
The incident continues to fuel debate around accountability, privacy and the speed at which online controversies can affect careers in the entertainment industry.
Also see: Limpopo Boy gives Minister Gayton McKenzie a dance lesson
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