The Government of South Africa has acknowledged growing economic repercussions linked to recent xenophobia-related controversies, including reported losses for South African businesses and entertainers operating abroad.
Speaking in an interview with SABC, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Mmamoloko Kubayi said the recent evacuation measures were directed at undocumented African migrants and should not be interpreted as xenophobic. She noted that the government is increasingly facing backlash across the continent, with some South African artists reportedly having their performances cancelled in several countries.
According to her, authorities are engaging with affected businesses and providing consular support to citizens operating abroad. Kubayi further explained that while many South African entertainers rely on continental tours for income, several have recently suffered cancellations linked to public reactions. She said one unnamed artist informed her that all scheduled shows outside the country had been called off, describing it as a significant financial loss.
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โOne 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,โ Kubayi stated.
The minister stressed the importance of distinguishing between illegal migration and the protection of lawful residents, adding that foreign nationals living legally in South Africa should be treated with the same dignity and protection as citizens.
โThat is why letโs deal with the issue of illegal immigrants. Those you have within your borders legally, please protect them as you would protect South Africans,โ the minister added.
