Xenophobia Backlash Hits South African Artistes, Businesses Across Africa

The South African government has acknowledged that the country is facing serious diplomatic and economic fallout across Africa following recent xenophobic attacks that targeted foreign nationals and forced several countries to evacuate their citizens.

South Africa’s Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, said the backlash is already affecting South African businesses and entertainers operating across the continent.

Speaking in an interview with the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) on Sunday, Kubayi admitted that the situation had begun to hurt the country’s image and commercial interests abroad.

“We can’t lie about the backlash and that is why part of the work that we are doing as government, as well through DIRCO, is engagement with businesses abroad, South African companies abroad,” she said.

According to the minister, the government is working through the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) to support South African businesses and provide consular assistance to those affected by the fallout.

Kubayi also disclosed that South African artistes, many of whom rely heavily on performances across Africa, are beginning to lose income because of the outrage over the attacks.

“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 stated.

The latest wave of xenophobic violence has triggered widespread condemnation across Africa, with countries including Nigeria, Ghana, Malawi, Kenya, Zimbabwe and Mozambique organising evacuation efforts for some of their citizens living in South Africa.

The attacks, which have targeted migrants and foreign-owned businesses, have reignited long-standing concerns about xenophobia in South Africa and strained relations with several African nations.

Kubayi urged South Africans to distinguish between illegal immigration and foreign nationals who are legally resident in the country.

“That is why let’s deal with the issue of illegal immigrants. Those you have within your borders legally, please protect them as you would protect South Africans,” she said.

Last week, President Cyril Ramaphosa condemned the harassment of people on the streets and warned against demanding proof of nationality from individuals.

He also vowed that his administration would take action against citizens involved in xenophobic attacks.

The crisis has continued to attract international attention, with rights groups and African leaders calling for stronger protection for migrants and foreign communities in South Africa.