The South African government has expressed sadness over the economic impact of recent xenophobia-related tensions, saying some of its citizens and businesses operating outside the country are already feeling the effects.
Speaking during an interview, South Africa’s Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, said the backlash has affected entertainers and businesses associated with the country.
Government Reacts to Backlash
Kubayi stated that the recent movement of people out of South Africa was directed at illegal immigration and should not be interpreted as xenophobia.
However, she admitted that reactions from other African countries have created consequences for South Africans abroad.
Artistes Losing International Opportunities
The minister disclosed that several South African artistes have begun losing performance opportunities across the continent.
According to her, one entertainer personally informed her that all scheduled appearances outside South Africa had been cancelled.
She said:
“We can’t lie about the backlash, and that is why part of the work that we are doing as government, as well through DECO, is engagement with businesses abroad, South African companies abroad.
“Minister Alamola has met with them, and we are providing services, support services and consular services for those businesses on the continent and outside the continent.”
Kubayi added:
“The majority of South African artistes perform on the continent, and many of them are seeing their gigs being cancelled.
“One artiste did reach out to me to say all her gigs were cancelled on the continent. This is an income loss by a South African.”
Call for Protection of Legal Residents
The minister called on other countries to distinguish between undocumented migrants and people residing legally.
She urged governments to continue protecting lawful residents in their territories regardless of nationality.
Recent Complaints Over Support in Sports
Her comments come days after South Africa captain Ronwen Williams expressed disappointment over what he described as a lack of support from fellow African countries during South Africa’s opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Williams said he was surprised that many African football supporters appeared to back Mexico instead of South Africa.
See below;
“Majority of South African artists who perform in other African countries are seeing their gigs getting cancelled. One artist reached out to me and said all her gigs were cancelled.”
~ South Africa 🇿🇦 Justice Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi pic.twitter.com/xusXyW3kJZ
— Nigeria Stories (@NigeriaStories) June 15, 2026