XENOPHOBIA: South African minister laments loss of artiste gigs, business impact

The Government of South Africa has expressed concern over the economic and reputational impact of ongoing xenophobia-related accusations, saying the situation is affecting its citizens’ income and international business engagements.

The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, said recent mass evacuations of foreign nationals from the country were targeted strictly at illegal immigrants and should not be framed as xenophobia.

She spoke during an interview with SABC on Sunday.

The development comes amid renewed diplomatic sensitivity following reports of xenophobic incidents in South Africa, which have triggered evacuation exercises by countries including Nigeria, Ghana, and Malawi.

Government defends immigration actions

Mrs Kubayi said the government was actively managing backlash from other African countries and working to protect South African businesses operating abroad.

“We can’t lie about the backlash… we are engaging with businesses abroad and providing consular support,” she said.

She added that enforcement actions were focused on undocumented migrants and not directed at lawful African residents.

“We are dealing with illegal immigrants. Those within your borders legally should be protected as you would protect South Africans,” she stated.

Artistes losing international bookings

The minister also revealed that South African entertainers are increasingly affected, with several reporting cancelled shows across Africa due to rising tensions linked to xenophobia allegations.

“One artiste did reach out to me to say all her gigs were cancelled on the continent. This is an income lost by a South African,” Mrs Kubayi said.

She noted that many South African artistes rely heavily on continental tours, and cancellations are now affecting their livelihoods and the creative industry.

Affected nations have in recent years repeatedly urged South Africa to strengthen protections for foreign nationals and curb recurring violence against migrant communities.

Call for African unity in sports

In a related development, South Africa national team captain Ronwen Williams also expressed disappointment over perceived lack of continental support during international competitions.

Following South Africa’s 2–0 defeat to co-hosts Mexico in a 2026 FIFA World Cup match, Williams said he expected stronger solidarity from African fans.

“Africans have always supported other African countries… but I can’t figure out why our own case is different,” he said.

Growing diplomatic and economic sensitivity

Analysts say the controversy highlights a recurring tension between immigration enforcement, regional unity, and economic interdependence across Africa.

South Africa remains one of the continent’s largest economies and a major hub for entertainment, trade, and migration, making any xenophobia-related dispute a sensitive diplomatic issue with wider continental implications.