Salif Keita cancels South Africa performances over xenophobia

Malian music legend Salif Keita has cancelled his upcoming commercial performances in South Africa, including a headline appearance at the Mangaung African Cultural Festival (MACUFE) in Bloemfontein. The 76-year-old musician cited reports of xenophobic violence and anti-immigration protests targeting African migrants as the reason for his decision.

In a statement, Keita described the withdrawal as a ‘painful decision,’ emphasizing that he is not rejecting the South African people but is instead ‘closing the door on violence.’ He noted that the current climate of hostility toward migrants does not align with the South Africa he knows, referencing the country’s history of solidarity and the legacy of Nelson Mandela.

South Africa has recently seen increased tensions and demonstrations regarding undocumented migration. While the musician’s manager, Carolina Vallejo of One World Records, confirmed the cancellations, Keita indicated he has not closed the door on the country entirely and would consider returning for non-commercial settings in the future.