The South African government has acknowledged the growing economic consequences of recent tensions linked to immigration and xenophobia, revealing that citizens and businesses connected to the country are already experiencing losses across Africa.
Speaking during an interview, South Africa’s Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi said the backlash has begun affecting South African entertainers and companies operating outside the country.
Kubayi maintained that recent actions targeting foreign nationals in South Africa were aimed at addressing illegal immigration rather than xenophobia. However, she admitted that the response from other African nations has had unintended consequences for South Africans living and working abroad.
According to the minister, several South African artistes have seen their bookings cancelled across the continent, resulting in significant income losses.
“We can’t lie about the backlash, and that is why part of the work that we are doing as government, as well through DECO, is engagement with businesses abroad, South African companies abroad.”
She added that the government has been providing support and consular services to affected South African businesses operating in other countries.
Kubayi further disclosed that one entertainer personally informed her that all scheduled performances outside South Africa had been cancelled.
“The majority of South African artistes perform on the continent, and many of them are seeing their gigs being cancelled. One artiste did reach out to me to say all her gigs were cancelled on the continent. This is an income loss by a South African.”
The minister also appealed to other governments to distinguish between undocumented migrants and individuals residing legally in their countries, urging authorities to continue protecting lawful residents regardless of nationality.
Her comments come shortly after South African national team captain Ronwen Williams expressed disappointment over what he described as limited support from fellow African nations during South Africa’s opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Williams said he was surprised that many African football fans appeared to support Mexico instead of South Africa.
Reactions
“You can’t expect solidarity from others while many Africans feel unwelcome in your country.”
“Illegal immigration is a real issue, but innocent people and businesses should not suffer because of it.”
“African unity sounds good until situations like this expose the divisions.”
“Cancelled gigs mean lost income for artistes who had nothing to do with government policies.”
“Governments need to address immigration concerns without creating hostility toward foreigners.”
“The continent is interconnected; economic and social tensions in one country eventually affect everyone.”
“Support is earned. If people feel targeted, reactions like this are inevitable.”
“This should be a wake-up call for all African leaders to promote cooperation instead of division.”
Published by Ejoh Caleb
