The South African government has acknowledged that the country is experiencing significant backlash from other African nations in the wake of recent xenophobic attacks and the evacuation of foreign nationals.
Mmamoloko Kubayi, South Africa’s Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, revealed that South African businesses and artists are already feeling the impact, with anger spreading across the continent.
In an interview with SABC on Sunday, Kubayi explained that some South African artists have had their performances cancelled in other African countries. “We cannot deny the backlash. That is why part of our government’s efforts, including those through DIRCO, involve engaging with businesses abroad, particularly South African companies,” she said.
Kubayi noted that the government is in contact with South African companies operating outside the country and is providing consular support to those affected by the situation. She emphasized that many South African artists rely on performances across Africa for their livelihoods, but now some are losing income.
One artist reached out to tell me all her gigs across the continent were cancelled. That’s lost income for a South African, Kubayi stated.
The minister urged South Africans to address concerns about illegal immigration without targeting foreign nationals who are legally residing in the country. “Let’s deal with the issue of illegal immigrants.
Those who are legally within your borders, please protect them as you would protect fellow South Africans, she appealed.
The recent wave of xenophobic violence has prompted countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, and Malawi to evacuate some of their citizens from South Africa. Last week, President Cyril Ramaphosa cautioned South Africans against harassing people on the streets by demanding proof of nationality and promised that the government would take action against those involved in xenophobic attacks.
