South African Government has raised concern over growing perceptions of xenophobia linked to its citizens, as doors keep shutting for local artists on the international stage.
Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, told Malawi24 that South African artists are increasingly losing opportunities to perform in various African countries after organizers cancelled previously scheduled events.
Kubayi said several artists have personally approached her to complain about the cancellation of their performances across the continent, a development that has negatively affected their incomes and hindered the growth of the entertainment sector.
“We are deeply concerned that the perception of South Africans as xenophobic is beginning to affect our artists and the broader creative industry. Many talented performers are losing opportunities across the continent because of actions and narratives that do not reflect the values of the majority of our people. South Africa remains committed to African unity, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence,” said Kubayi.
The minister emphasized that South Africa is not a xenophobic nation, contrary to claims made by some observers. She warned that such perceptions could damage the country’s relations with other African nations and adversely affect trade, tourism, and investment.
However, the government has urged citizens to address immigration related concerns through established legal channels and procedures.
It further cautioned that actions or statements perceived as xenophobic could have serious consequences for the country’s economy and reputation across Africa.
Earlier, the Likoma Island Festival (LiFE) in Malawi suspended negotiations with a South African musician who was expected to perform at this year’s event, in a move organisers described as a symbolic act of solidarity with migrants facing discrimination, violence and forced removals in South Africa.
The festival’s organising team said it had halted ongoing talks with the artist, saying the decision reflects growing concern over the treatment of migrants and rising tensions linked to xenophobia-related incidents in South Africa.
Meanwhile, the Government of Malawi is currently repatriating its citizens who voluntarily chose to return home following recent xenophobia-related incidents in South Africa.
