The South African government has expressed concern over the growing economic impact of allegations of xenophobia against the country, saying the backlash is now affecting businesses and entertainers across the African continent.
Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, said South African artists have begun losing performance opportunities abroad, while businesses operating outside the country are also facing difficulties due to negative perceptions linked to xenophobia.
Speaking in an interview with SABC on Sunday, Kubayi stressed that recent government actions targeting illegal immigration should not be interpreted as xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals.
She explained that authorities are actively engaging with South African businesses operating abroad, noting that diplomatic and consular support is being provided to help address the growing challenges linked to reputational damage.
Kubayi also said the entertainment industry has been significantly affected, with several performers reportedly losing international bookings. She added that one artist personally informed her that all scheduled shows outside South Africa had been cancelled, resulting in substantial income loss.
The minister further clarified that the government remains committed to addressing illegal immigration while urging that legally documented foreign nationals within South Africa be protected, as diplomatic tensions continue amid reports of anti-immigrant incidents across the region. The controversy has also sparked reactions in sports, including comments from Bafana Bafana captain Ronwen Williams, who expressed disappointment over perceived lack of African support during South Africa’s recent World Cup qualifier against Mexico.
Elijah Adeyemi
No comments:
Post a Comment