The ongoing divorce proceedings between media personality Phumeza Mdabe and her estranged husband, music producer Mnqobi Mdabe, have reportedly taken a dramatic turn as the former couple continues to battle over maintenance payments in court.
The pair, who were once regarded as one of South Africa’s most admired celebrity couples, are now at the centre of a highly publicised legal dispute following the breakdown of their marriage. Their separation has attracted widespread attention, with many fans expressing disappointment over how the relationship has unfolded.
According to reports, the latest disagreement centres on maintenance payments requested by Phumeza. It is alleged that she is seeking R65,000 in spousal support as well as R22,000 in child maintenance for their two children, bringing the total amount requested to approximately R87,000 per month.
However, Mnqobi is said to be opposing the application, claiming that he is currently unemployed and facing serious financial difficulties. Court documents reportedly indicate that the music producer maintains that he has no steady source of income and has been relying on assistance from close friends and associates to support himself.
The matter has become even more controversial due to claims involving internationally acclaimed DJ and producer DJ Black Coffee. Previous reports suggested that Black Coffee, who has worked closely with Mnqobi over the years, allegedly assisted the family financially by helping secure a luxury property, purchasing vehicles, and supporting educational opportunities for the couple’s children.
Mnqobi reportedly cited these forms of support as evidence of his financial struggles, arguing that he would not have needed such assistance if he had the means to provide for his family independently.
Phumeza, however, is said to dispute her estranged husband’s claims. Reports suggest that she believes Mnqobi continues to earn substantial income through his involvement in the entertainment industry and various business interests. She allegedly argues that his association with major international music projects and touring operations still provides him with significant earning opportunities.
To support her position, court filings reportedly include financial records and business documents that indicate some of Mnqobi’s companies generated considerable revenue during 2025. The documents allegedly show income streams and transactions that suggest he may be in a stronger financial position than he claims.
The dispute comes only months after news emerged that the couple had decided to end their marriage after more than a decade together. Reports at the time linked the breakdown of the relationship to allegations of infidelity, although both parties have largely remained private about the details surrounding their separation.
As news of the maintenance battle spread across social media, South Africans quickly weighed in with mixed reactions. While many users expressed sadness at seeing a once-beloved couple involved in a bitter legal fight, others debated the financial claims being made by both parties.
Some social media users noted how painful divorce proceedings can become, particularly when children and finances are involved. Others drew comparisons to other high-profile celebrity divorces that have played out publicly in recent years.
For now, the legal battle appears far from over. As both sides continue to present their arguments, many observers will be watching closely to see how the court ultimately resolves the dispute and whether the former couple can eventually reach common ground.
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