In the world of social media, where every word can spark a wildfire, South African YouTuber Oami has found herself at the center of a storm she never anticipated. With a heavy heart and tear-stained eyes, she recently addressed her followers in a candid, late-night video, seeking to clarify her role—or lack thereof—in the controversial Manzini Investment scheme and to grieve the loss of her close friend, Goman Zini, who passed away unexpectedly. Her message was not only a personal plea for understanding but also a reflection on the complexities of friendship, faith, and the dangers of online judgment.

A Friendship Built on Respect and Differences

Oami’s friendship with Goman Zini was, by her own account, genuine and rooted in mutual respect despite their differing beliefs and life paths. While Goman’s content often delved into spiritual and traditional practices, Oami made it clear she was never the target audience for such topics. “I’ve never made it a secret that I don’t consult Sangomas,” she explained. “That’s why I wouldn’t watch her channel, even though we were friends.” Their bond was one that transcended content or career, built instead on understanding and love.

The Manzini Investment: A Storm Oami Never Saw Coming

The heart of the controversy lies in the now-infamous Manzini Investment scheme, which Goman Zini launched in December of the previous year. According to Oami, she was completely unaware of the investment until months after it began. Followers who had discovered Goman through Oami’s channel became involved, but Oami insists she neither promoted nor participated in the venture.

“When she started the investment, I did not know because I do not watch her channel,” Oami stated plainly. “It’s not something that even came from my channel.” She recounted how, as the scheme appeared to flourish, no one reached out to thank her for the introduction or to share their financial gains. Only when things went awry did the messages and accusations begin to pour in.

Caught in the Crossfire of Grief and Blame

Oami’s video is as much a defense as it is a lament. She expressed frustration at being dragged into the scandal, noting the unfairness of being blamed for decisions she had no part in. “You made a decision by yourself, but now you want to blame me for the decisions that you made? No, absolutely not,” she asserted.

Her pain was compounded by the public’s reaction to Goman’s death. Some commenters, identifying as Christians, expressed disturbing satisfaction at her passing, citing her unconventional lifestyle as justification. Oami condemned these attitudes, reminding viewers of the core Christian tenets of forgiveness and humility. “The real witch is someone that would celebrate someone dying,” she said. “Stop thinking you are too holy when you sin just in different ways.”

A Plea for Compassion and Privacy

Amid the chaos, Oami made a heartfelt plea: to be allowed to grieve her friend in peace. She emphasized that her mourning does not invalidate others’ negative experiences with Goman, just as their grievances should not overshadow the deep bond she shared with her late friend. “I have a right to grieve someone that was very close to me,” she insisted. “Your experience with someone should not invalidate the experience that other people have with that same person.”

She also addressed rumors about her financial involvement in the investment, clarifying that any gifts received from Goman were personal and unrelated to the scheme. “A gift is a gift to me,” she explained, recounting how Goman had once sent her money to buy filming lights—a gesture of friendship, not business.

The Toll of Public Scrutiny

The emotional weight of the past weeks was evident as Oami spoke about losing her equipment, her friend, and her peace of mind. She described the experience as “absolutely crazy,” noting the insensitivity of some online comments and the ripple effect they have on those mourning Goman’s death, including her family. “Manzini was a mother, a wife, a friend, a daughter. She has many people that loved her,” Oami reminded her audience.

She also explained her decision not to disclose the cause of Goman’s death, respecting the family’s privacy and their right to share information as they see fit. “If the family is comfortable saying that, they will,” she said, urging others to check official channels for updates.

Lessons in Accountability and Empathy

Oami’s message serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of misplaced blame and the importance of personal responsibility. She urged her viewers to reflect on their own actions and judgments, especially when hiding behind the anonymity of the internet. “If you have nothing positive to say, you might as well shut your mouth,” she advised bluntly.

At the same time, she expressed genuine sympathy for those who lost money in the investment, apologizing for their pain despite her lack of involvement. “I am really sorry if you were part of the Manzini investment and things did not go well. I really honestly am so sorry,” she said, her voice tinged with sadness.

Moving Forward

As she closed her video, Oami thanked those who had offered condolences and support, admitting that this was the first time she had lost a close friend to death. Her vulnerability was palpable, her message clear: grief is personal, blame should be fair, and compassion is needed now more than ever.

In a digital world quick to judge and slow to forgive, Oami’s story is a reminder that behind every screen is a human being, navigating loss and misunderstanding with as much grace as they can muster. As the dust settles on the Manzini Investment scandal, perhaps her words will inspire a little more empathy—and a lot less noise.