South Africa’s Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, says claims of xenophobia are already affecting people and businesses across the continent. Speaking in an interview with SABC, Kubayi acknowledges that the backlash has had tangible economic and cultural consequences, including cancellations of performances by South African artists who regularly travel and work in other African countries. She said some artists are losing income because gigs are cancelled, and that South African companies abroad are also experiencing difficulties.
Kubayi also clarifies that recent mass evacuations in South Africa were aimed at illegal immigrants and were not intended to be driven by xenophobic motives. She emphasized that the government, working through DECO, is engaging with businesses abroad and providing consular and support services. The minister stressed the need to protect legally resident foreigners while addressing illegal immigration.
She cited an example of a South African artist whose shows were cancelled across Africa, which she said illustrates the broader scale of the impact. The comments are made in the context of wider continental tensions and regional grievances reported alongside other sports-related disputes.
