During the 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA), an unexpected moment of humor came from Imbongi (praise poet) Inako Mateza, who had the audience, including President Cyril Ramaphosa, in stitches.
The 19-year-old delivered a traditional African introduction at Cape Town City Hall on Thursday, 6 February, but it was her playful mention of the President’s nickname that stole the spotlight.
The ‘Cupcake’ Moment That Stunned the Audience
As part of the customary SONA introduction, Mateza recited a vibrant and energetic Xhosa poem to welcome President Ramaphosa.
However, it was her choice of words that caught everyone off guard.
The young poet referred to the President using the popular nickname given to him by the public, saying: “Mandikuyeke my President, mandikuyeke my cupcake,” which translates to “Let me leave you my President, let me leave you my cupcake.”
The moment was met with laughter from President Ramaphosa and the audience in attendance, with many South Africans finding it amusing as it quickly became a trending topic on social media.
Social Media Reacts to ‘Cupcake’ Moment
As the video of the introduction made its rounds online, South Africans took to platforms like the X app to share their thoughts.
One user, @Ramathunyane, joked, “Ma2000 just don’t care,” while another, @MVProJileka, humorously added, “She called our president ‘Cupcake,’ and I forgive her.
She’s young.” Other users expressed their surprise and disbelief, with @fruitcakesana remarking, “What an unserious country.”
The Origins of ‘Cupcake’ Nickname for Ramaphosa
While the moment was light-hearted, many wondered where the nickname “Cupcake” originated.
According to reports, the term of endearment first emerged in 2017.
It was linked to allegations surrounding President Ramaphosa’s private life, specifically regarding accusations that he was involved with several young women.
Leaked emails reportedly revealed that Ramaphosa, then a presidential hopeful, had referred to one of these women as “cupcake.”
Later, in an interview with the Sunday Times, Ramaphosa acknowledged a past relationship with a woman from Limpopo but denied the allegations of widespread affairs.
He clarified, “I had a relationship with only one person, and it ended. I dealt with it with my wife.
We now have a professional relationship.”
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