South African Artistes Losing Gigs Across Africa Over Xenophobia Perceptions — Kubayi

South Africa’s Justice and Constitutional Development Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi, has said allegations of xenophobia are taking a toll on the country’s economy and entertainment industry, with businesses and artistes reportedly facing growing resistance across Africa.

Kubayi made the remarks during an interview with public broadcaster SABC, where she acknowledged the negative consequences of the backlash while defending the government’s position on immigration enforcement.

According to her, measures aimed at addressing illegal immigration have been widely misunderstood and portrayed as hostility toward foreign nationals.

“We can’t lie about the backlash,” Kubayi said, adding that the government has intensified engagement with South African companies operating outside the country.

She explained that authorities are working with affected businesses and providing diplomatic assistance to mitigate the impact.

“Minister Alamola has met with them, and we are providing services, support services and consular services for those businesses on the continent and outside the continent.”

Kubayi said entertainers have also suffered significant losses, particularly those whose careers depend on performances in other African countries.

“The majority of our artistes perform across the continent, and many of them are now seeing their shows cancelled.”

The minister disclosed that one performer informed her that every scheduled appearance outside South Africa had been called off.

“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.”

She urged African countries to continue protecting South Africans living legally within their borders while discussions around illegal immigration continue.

The comments come as South Africa faces renewed scrutiny over reports of anti-immigrant attacks and tensions involving foreign nationals.

The issue has also sparked reactions in the sporting world. Following South Africa’s 2-0 loss to Mexico at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Bafana Bafana captain Ronwen Williams expressed disappointment that many African fans appeared to support the opposition.

“Africans have always supported other African countries in every World Cup tournament, but I can’t figure out why our own case is different,” Williams said.

“Many Africans supported Mexico, not us, the South Africans. We almost shed tears, but it’s truly sad.”

Williams’ comments highlighted the broader regional tensions surrounding perceptions of xenophobia and their impact on South Africa’s relations with fellow African nations.

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