The silence of female artists in the music industry over revelations of sexual abuse within their community is deeply troubling. This silence not only fails the victims but also perpetuates a culture where such abuses can continue unchecked.
Bickering Between Mani Bella and Lady Ponce
Recently, an online argument between Bikutsi stars Adele Ruffine, also known as Lady Ponce, and Mani Bella broke out as most Cameroonians were in shock over the revelations of Jato Sonita’s sexual abuse. The disagreement surfaced as Mani Bella encouraged Lady Ponce to reconcile with fellow singer Corine Celine Ntyame, also known as Coco Argentée.
This tension comes at a sensitive time when Jato Sonita, a young upcoming artist in the same music industry, shared her traumatic story of rape. Although the identity of the perpetrator remains unknown, 14-year-old child activist Malala Wilson publicly condemned the horrific act.
Mani Bella, a prominent figure in Cameroon’s Bikutsi scene, who recently announced on social media her intention to move away from secular music and devote her life to Christ, took to Facebook, urging Lady Ponce to make amends with Coco Argentée.
“Lady Ponce and Coco Argentée, what’s up? When are you making peace? Aren’t you tired, my beloved sisters?”
Fans questioned the sincerity of her post, interpreting it as either a genuine call for peace or a sarcastic jab.
In response, Lady Ponce addressed Mani Bella directly, suggesting she herself reconcile with Manga Mintsa Françoise, also known as Amazone Mantendale.
Lady Ponce then made another Facebook post, which appeared to be indirectly aimed at Mani Bella, writing,
“Witch, hypocrite, manipulator that blocks your career. Please, take your peace elsewhere, little sister. I don’t know how to pretend for views.”
This vague yet pointed message continued to fuel the online dispute, which has garnered attention from social media influencers like Aicha Kamoise and some bloggers, who have shared and commented on the bickering.
An Industry-Wide Problem?
In a music industry where artists are expected to support one another, it is disheartening to see how public disagreements have overshadowed more pressing issues.
One such issue is the plight of Jato Sonita, the young leader of the “Forest Kids” band, who became a single mother after suffering sexual abuse. While the identity of her abuser remains unclear, it highlights the growing issue of abuse against young girls, particularly in conflict zones within Cameroon.
It is crucial for the entertainment industry to rally behind victims like Jato and advocate for justice and protection for vulnerable young women.
Despite the gravity of Jato Sonita’s revelations, the silence from female artists in the community has been deafening. Their lack of public support for Jato highlights a troubling trend of silence and inaction in the face of sexual abuse within the music industry.
Jato Sonita’s Case
Jato Sonita, a 16-year-old lead singer of the Forest Children band from Cameroon’s North West Region, has a harrowing story of survival and resilience. In 2021, she was sexually assaulted by unidentified gunmen while swimming with friends. This traumatic event resulted in a pregnancy, and she is now a single mother to a two-year-old child.
For over three years, Jato and her family kept the abuse a secret, fearing ridicule and harm to her budding musical career.
It wasn’t until August 2024 that she publicly shared her ordeal during a press conference alongside her manager, Bayong Emmanuel Che.
Jato’s case represents a broader issue of sexual violence in Cameroon, particularly in conflict zones. Many victims, like Jato, choose silence over reporting the abuse due to fear of disbelief and societal stigma. According to the Centre for Human Rights and Democracy in Africa (CHRDA), they receive reports of at least one rape case daily, with many more going unreported.
Despite the challenges, Jato continues to use her music to inspire and advocate for change. Her songs, such as “Light Your Fire” and “Warawa,” reflect her resilience and commitment to highlighting social issues.
Mimi Mefo Info
