South African radio host, Sizwe Dhlomo, and record producer, DJ Tira, on a FlySafair flight. Picture: X
In a delightful twist illustrating the playful nature of South Africa's online community, television and radio host Sizwe Dhlomo found himself at the centre of attention after being spotted flying commercial.
The unexpected encounter was captured in a photo shared by popular DJ and record producer, DJ Tira, who posted a picture of himself seated next to Dhlomo on a FlySafair flight.
“Akesithi shwiii!!! (Let’s go!) ✈️✈️✈️✈️ Ngiphethe uDinangwe 🕺🏾 (I’ve got Dinangwe with me),” DJ Tira captioned the image, initiating a wave of teasing remarks from X users.
Akesithi shwiii!!! ✈️✈️✈️✈️ Ngiphethe uDinangwe 🕺🏾 pic.twitter.com/qpi5OA6hiJ
— Makoya Bearings (@DJTira) January 9, 2025
The sight of Dhlomo, often dubbed South Africa's “Ritchie Rich”, travelling in economy class shocked many.
Known for his bold proclamations regarding wealth and lifestyle, he recently found himself under scrutiny when he was labelled a braggart for commenting on cars equipped with pothole detection navigation systems.
The fervour on social media escalated as Dhlomo interacted with users regarding his commentary on navigating potholes, suggesting a level of wealth that is out of touch with everyday concerns.
One user, @Nkulunkulu_God, quipped: “Memorising potholes is a necessary skill in S.A.”
Dlomo replied: “Your cars don’t tell you when there’s a pothole ahead?”
This exchange fuelled perceptions that Dhlomo relishes flaunting his financial prowess.
Your cars don’t tell you when there’s a pothole ahead? https://t.co/2kv20bZEKX
— Sizwe Dhlomo (@SizweDhlomo) January 6, 2025
However, DJ Tira's photo stirred up a delightful irony. As netizens reacted, the banter that followed took on various forms.
Obviously, that's Sizwe's plane. He gave you guys a lift..... pic.twitter.com/ckuhn4phKU
— Michael (@mickeydedrinker) January 9, 2025
User @mickeydedrinker sarcastically remarked: “Obviously, that's Sizwe's plane. He gave you guys a lift ...”
@Heldah19 speculated: “For sure he’s asking the pilot if the plane can sense a cloud hole 🕳️ on air.”
"Rich people stay rich, because they live like they are poor. Poor people STAY POOR, Because they live like they are Rich"
— Kagiso🇿🇦 (@PulengKagiso) January 9, 2025
The Millionare Next Door
Other comments reflected the playful spirit of the moment.
@PulengKagiso commented: “Rich people stay rich, because they live like they are poor. Poor people STAY POOR, Because they live like they are Rich."
Ultimately, the commentary culminated in a broader reflection on wealth and frugality as user @Hlangus_ observed: “Oh so the black Richie rich flies economy like the rest of us peasants ??🥲🥲.”
Meanwhile, @tafolaI8 humorously stated: “Ke January ka nnete (It’s really January). Rich boys flying like normal folk 😂😂😂.”
Ke January ka nnete. Rich boys flying like normal folk😂😂😂
— Professor Tafola Bhebhatov (@tafolaI8) January 9, 2025
The online engagement showcased not only the humour of South African netizens but also served as a reminder that in a country striving to balance the scales of wealth and privilege, even the most affluent among us can relate to the broader experience of everyday South Africans.