Zuma Foundation Ends Ties With Fundraiser, Cautions Public on Unauthorised Approaches

Foundation Ends Relationship With Fundraising Facilitator

The Jacob Zuma Foundation has officially ended its association with a business development and fundraising facilitator, urging sponsors and the broader public to exercise caution when approached by individuals or organisations claiming to represent the foundation.

According to a public announcement from the foundation, the appointment of Romeo Business Development Facilitators (RBDF) has come to an end and will not be renewed. This decision means that RBDF no longer holds any authority to act or raise funds on behalf of the Jacob Zuma Foundation.

Details of the Contract and Foundation’s Statement

Mzwanele Manyi, spokesperson for the foundation, confirmed, “The appointment of Romeo Business Development Facilitators (RBDF) expired and has not been extended.”

Manyi expressed gratitude for RBDF’s past contributionsparticularly in supporting the foundation’s relaunch effortsbut emphasized that, as of now, the company is not authorised to conduct any activity in the foundation’s name.

• RBDF is no longer permitted to raise funds for the foundation
• They cannot engage potential sponsors using the foundation’s identity or branding
• The name of the foundation’s patron, former president Jacob Zuma, may not be used by RBDF

Call for Vigilance From Sponsors and the Public

The foundation issued a direct warning, highlighting the importance of verification. Sponsors and members of the public are urged not to make any commitments or respond to solicitations reportedly from the foundation without first contacting the official spokesperson to establish legitimacy.

“Sponsors and members of the public approached in the foundation’s name are urged to verify the approach with the foundation spokesperson before making any commitment,” Manyi stated.

Clarification on Official Announcements

The foundation clarified that all legitimate announcements regarding its activities or programmes will be issued solely through its own official communication channels.

“The foundation’s programmes are announced by the foundation only and no one else,” Manyi explained.

This measure aims to prevent confusion and limit the risk of unauthorised fundraising or sponsorship activities that could misuse the foundation’s brand or resources.

Background: Previous Fundraising Controversy

This is not the first time the foundation has taken steps to distance itself from outside fundraising campaigns. Last year, the foundation publicly disavowed efforts aimed at helping former president Jacob Zuma repay R28.9 million in legal fees after a court decision found him personally liable for the costs. An outdated fundraising poster had resurfaced online, prompting the foundation to reaffirm that no officially sanctioned fundraising campaign had been authorised.

At that time, Manyi also advised supporters to await direct, official announcements before providing any assistance, emphasizing both transparency and due process.

Brand and Identity Protection

The most recent statement from the foundation is a firm move to safeguard its name and charitable activities from unauthorised or misleading use. This includes explicit warnings against using its name, logo, or stationery without express permission.

Official Procedures and Supporter Guidance

The Jacob Zuma Foundation’s actions underline a broader trend among organisations to protect their identity and ensure that fundraising or sponsorship efforts are legitimate. Public caution is especially crucial given the risks of fraud or misrepresentation associated with unauthorised requests for funds. Individuals and companies approached with requests on behalf of any foundation are strongly encouraged to verify the organisation’s involvement before making financial or material contributions.

The foundation has signalled that further comments may follow once consultations with Jacob Zuma’s legal team are complete, but reiterated that all valid communications will continue to be distributed through its official channels only.