Zuma Foundation cuts ties with fundraiser, warns public over unauthorised approaches

The Jacob Zuma Foundation has severed ties with Romeo Business Development Facilitators (RBDF), alerting the public and potential sponsors against engaging with any entity claiming affiliation with the organization without proper verification. The foundation disclosed that the RBDF appointment had lapsed and not been renewed, thus nullifying the company's authorization to operate on behalf of the foundation.

Mzwanele Manyi, a spokesperson for the foundation, expressed gratitude for RBDF's assistance during the foundation's relaunch but emphasized that the company is no longer authorized to carry out activities under the foundation's name. RBDF is barred from fundraising, seeking sponsors, or utilizing the foundation's identity, branding, or the name of its patrons, including former president Jacob Zuma.

The foundation further clarified that all program announcements will originate exclusively from official foundation channels, urging donors and the public to verify any approached engagements directly with the foundation's spokesperson prior to committing. This directive is aimed at preserving the organization's reputation and thwarting unauthorized fundraising or sponsorship endeavors conducted under its name.

Last year, the foundation distanced itself from fundraising efforts to aid former president Jacob Zuma in repaying R28.9 million in legal expenses following a court ruling that deemed him personally responsible for the costs. This clarification emerged following the resurgence of an outdated fundraising poster online. Manyi reiterated that no authorized fundraising campaigns had been launched, urging supporters to await official announcements before extending any aid.

The foundation cautioned against using its name, logo, or stationery without explicit permission, asserting that it would issue further statements once consultations with Zuma's legal team concluded.