US-based Zimbabwean comedian Learnmore Jonasi seeks donations after US$27m lawsuit

Learnmore Jonasi performing stand-up comedy

HARARE – US-based Zimbabwean comedian Learnmore Jonasi has launched a public fundraising appeal after being hit with a US$27 million lawsuit, turning to a GoFundMe campaign to cover mounting legal costs. Jonasi is seeking to raise US$20,000 to fund his legal defence, saying the financial burden of fighting the case is beyond his means.

The lawsuit was filed by South African composer Lebohang Morake, popularly known as Lebo M, following remarks Jonasi made on the One54 Africa podcast about the meaning of the iconic Zulu chant “Nants’ingonyama” from The Lion King. Morake accuses Jonasi of misrepresenting the chant’s cultural and artistic significance, arguing that the comments amounted to false claims.

In a statement posted on Facebook, Jonasi described the lawsuit as a devastating escalation from what he says was intended as humour.

“My name is Learnmore Jonasi, and I am reaching out during one of the most difficult moments in my life,” he wrote. “I was recently hit with a $27 million lawsuit by renowned artist Lebohang Morake (Lebo M) over a joke I made about The Lion King’s opening Zulu chant.”

Jonasi said he never intended to cause harm, but now faces high legal costs.

“I am a passionate creator who never intended harm, but I now face overwhelming legal fees just to defend my right to speak and tell jokes,” he said.

The comedian is urging supporters to contribute to his crowdfunding campaign, saying all donations will go toward securing legal representation.

“Every donation, big or small, will directly go toward my legal representation, so I can fight this unjust claim and protect my livelihood,” he said.

The US$20,000 target is aimed at covering initial legal expenses as the case develops.

The case has reignited debate around Jonasi’s comedic style, with some critics revisiting past remarks he has made about Zimbabwean culture while living abroad. Despite the backlash, Jonasi has previously indicated he would not apologise for the comments at the centre of the lawsuit, maintaining they were made in jest. Media and legal analysts say the case highlights the growing risks faced by content creators operating across cultural and legal boundaries.

“Comedy often pushes limits, but when it intersects with cultural identity and global audiences, the stakes can become significantly higher,” said Harare-based media analyst Tendai Moyo.

With a US$27 million claim looming, the case represents a potentially life-altering legal challenge for the comedian. For now, Jonasi’s appeal has placed the dispute firmly in the public spotlight, as supporters and critics alike watch how the case unfolds.

Learnmore Jonasi lawsuit