Amakipkip faces backlash from family and fans following unauthorized launch of AKA tribute merchandise.
The South African streetwear label, Amakipkip, has found itself embroiled in a contentious situation after unveiling a collection of tribute merchandise dedicated to the late rapper AKA.
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This move has ignited a wave of discontent as it becomes evident that the Forbes family was neither consulted nor granted authorization for the use of AKA’s image and brand for commercial endeavors.
The brand introduced the merchandise on its Instagram platform, revealing its intention to offer it for purchase at R600.
Yet, the response was rapid and fierce, as it became clear that the Forbes family had been excluded from the decision-making process.
The family voiced their disappointment and exasperation, underscoring the necessity for respect, consent, and official approval when employing the likeness of a deceased individual for financial gain.
On Instagram, Steffan Forbes, AKA’s brother, criticized the clothing brand’s actions with a succinct comment: “No Shame.”
Furthermore, the situation has sparked outrage among AKA’s supporters, who took to Twitter to condemn Amakipkip’s decision to create an AKA tribute merchandise line without the family’s endorsement.
One fervent fan, Rubu Thulisa, expressed, “The audacity for @AmakipkipGlobal to make this announcement without the family’s approval let alone consulting with them first proves their business ethics are questionable & these stunts will not be tolerated by the MEGACY!
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Therefore, we demand those T-Shirts to be taken off shelves IMMEDIATELY!! Oh and MEGACY while we still at it please report their IG page.”
The audacity for @AmakipkipGlobal to make this announcement without the family’s approval let alone consulting with them first proves their business ethics are questionable & these stunts will not be tolerated by the MEGACY! pic.twitter.com/3qBKWllN15
— BHOVARESS (@RubuThulisa) August 7, 2023
I love @AmakipkipGlobal, however this is saddening. Also, no brand sold any merch with @akaworldwide’s name or images, those that attempted to do so in the past were contacted by his attorneys & the merch/ad’s were revoked. AKA’s fans buy merch but, they won’t buy it in this way.
— Nguvi (@nguvi_) August 7, 2023
We won’t buy the Shirt. Simple.
— Ayanda Moses Mbatha (@AyandaMbatha4) August 7, 2023
They should take this down 💔🙆🏽♂️😠👎👎
— Jethro Imbongi ❁ (@jethroimbongi) August 7, 2023
Les as well, rocking this rubbish
— Kutlwano Mofokeng (@KUTLWANOKMAN) August 7, 2023
They are milking my GOAT 💔💔
— Lee (@Liya_Bukwa) August 7, 2023
