JOHANNESBURG — South African artists and businesses are facing mounting losses across Africa as allegations of xenophobia spark cancellations and strained ties, Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi said Sunday.
Kubayi told SABC that entertainers have reported cancelled performances in other African countries, while companies operating abroad are struggling with reputational damage. “We cannot deny that there is a backlash,” she said, adding that government agencies are working with affected businesses through diplomatic and consular channels.
She insisted that recent deportations and evacuations of foreign nationals were aimed at tackling illegal immigration, not xenophobia. Still, she acknowledged that perceptions of hostility have led to cancellations. “The majority of our artists perform in other African countries, and many are seeing their gigs cancelled. One artist reached out to me and said all her bookings on the continent were cancelled. That represents a loss of income for a South African,” Kubayi said.
On social media, reactions have been sharp. Many African users expressed anger, accusing South Africa of hypocrisy and warning of boycotts. Hashtags such as #SayNoToXenophobia and #BoycottSA trended in Nigeria, Kenya, and Ghana, with some fans vowing not to attend South African concerts. Others defended South Africa, arguing that immigration enforcement should not be conflated with xenophobia.
Policy makers across Africa have also weighed in. Nigerian lawmakers urged caution, warning that hostility toward foreign nationals could damage regional integration efforts. Kenyan officials said they were monitoring the situation closely, while Ghana’s cultural ministry expressed concern over cancelled shows involving South African performers.
Business leaders echoed the alarm. Several South African companies reported difficulties renewing contracts in West Africa, with one executive saying partners had “paused negotiations until the controversy is resolved.” Advocacy groups warned that the backlash could undermine South Africa’s soft power and cultural exports, which rely heavily on regional markets.
The controversy comes at a sensitive time, as South Africa seeks to strengthen trade and cultural ties across the continent. Officials say they are intensifying diplomatic engagement to reassure partners and protect South African interests abroad.
