South African Artists Lose Continental Gigs Over Xenophobia Fears, Justice Minister Warns

South African artists are having shows cancelled across Africa as migration tensions at home fuel backlash abroad, Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi said on Friday.

Kubayi voiced concern after receiving reports that at least one local performer lost multiple bookings on the continent due to growing unease linked to anti-migrant sentiment in South Africa.

The minister appealed for calm and urged communities to reject vigilantism. She warned that xenophobic violence not only endangers foreign nationals but also hurts South Africa’s own creative sector, with artists now facing economic fallout beyond the country’s borders.

“Violence and xenophobia damage our social fabric and our cultural economy,” Kubayi said. “Our artists are feeling the ripple effects.”

South Africa has seen recurring flare-ups of anti-migrant violence in recent years, straining diplomatic and cultural ties with other African countries. Creative industry groups have previously flagged that local tensions often translate into lost tours, collaborations, and festival slots for South African acts.

Kubayi called on citizens to protect the country’s image and uphold the rule of law, stressing that cultural exchange remains vital for regional unity and economic growth.

No further details were given on which artist or countries were involved in the latest cancellations.