South African Minister Laments Cancelled Shows, Economic Fallout Across Africa

Speaking on SABC, South Africa’s Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi said the recent deportation and evacuation efforts targeted illegal immigrants and were not driven by xenophobia.

Kubayi acknowledged the backlash against South Africa, noting that several artists have had shows cancelled in African countries, resulting in lost income.

She said the government is engaging businesses abroad and providing support through diplomatic and consular channels to mitigate the impact.

According to the minister, one artist informed her that all of her bookings across the continent had been cancelled. She urged African countries to protect legally resident South Africans just as South Africa should protect foreign nationals who are in the country legally.

The remarks come amid tensions following reports of anti-immigrant actions in South Africa, which prompted countries including Nigeria, Ghana and Malawi to evacuate some of their citizens.

The controversy has also spilled into sports, with Ronwen Williams recently expressing disappointment over what he perceived as limited support from fellow Africans during South Africa’s opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.