Salif Keita cancels South Africa concerts due to reports of xenophobic attacks

Malian music legend and icon, Salif Keita, has announced that he will be cancelling his concert in South Africa due to the ongoing xenophobic violence in the country.

Malian music legend Salif Keita has called off his upcoming performances in South Africa, citing concerns over growing anti-migrant sentiment and reports of xenophobic violence in the country.

The 76-year-old singer made the decision following a series of protests against illegal immigration that have taken place in South Africa, with some demonstrations reportedly turning violent.

In a statement shared on Facebook on Tuesday, Keita said he could not remain indifferent to reports of African migrants being subjected to violence.

The veteran performer described the decision to cancel his commercial shows as a “painful” one. He did not disclose the dates or venues of the affected concerts.

Keita’s manager, Carolina Vallejo of One World Records, confirmed the cancellations to AFP on Wednesday.

Despite stepping back from touring in recent years because of medical reasons, Keita continues to perform occasionally after a career spanning more than five decades.

Explaining his position, the acclaimed singer stressed that his decision was directed at the violence rather than South Africa itself.

“I am not closing the door on South Africa. I am closing the door on violence,” Keita said.

He added that seeing migrants being attacked made him think of people seeking employment, security and a better life, rather than political issues.

Keita also referenced the historic relationship between South Africa and Mali, describing the country as one that had previously stood alongside Mali and invoking the legacy of former South African president Nelson Mandela.

The cancellation comes amid heightened concerns over the treatment of migrants in South Africa. According to an AFP tally based on figures from African governments involved in repatriation efforts, more than 160,000 people have left South Africa since late May, including approximately 1,500 Nigerians.

Keita's decision adds his voice to growing concerns over xenophobia and anti-migrant violence, while leaving open the possibility of a return to South Africa once conditions improve.

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