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Malian music legend Salif Keita has cancelled his upcoming performances in South Africa, citing concerns over the recent wave of anti-migrant protests and reports of xenophobic violence in the country.
The 76-year-old singer and songwriter announced the decision on Tuesday, saying he could not simply look away while Africans living in South Africa were being attacked. His spokesperson and manager, Carolina Vallejo of One World Records, confirmed the cancellation to AFP on Wednesday.Keita described the decision as a painful one but said he could not separate his music from the reality facing migrants and other Africans in the country. He did not disclose the dates or venues of the cancelled shows.
“I cannot ignore the reports of xenophobic violence against our African brothers and sisters,” Keita said in a statement shared on Facebook.
The legendary musician, whose career has stretched for more than five decades, made it clear that his decision was not a rejection of South Africa itself. Rather, he said it was a protest against violence and the treatment of migrants.
“To be clear — I am not closing the door on South Africa. I am closing the door on violence,” he said.
Keita also recalled South Africa’s historical relationship with Mali and the legacy of former President Nelson Mandela, saying the attacks on migrants did not represent the country he knew and admired.
South Africa has witnessed a number of demonstrations against illegal immigration in recent months, with some protests reportedly turning violent.
The situation has also triggered an exodus of migrants. According to an AFP tally based on figures from African governments involved in repatriation exercises, more than 160,000 people have left South Africa since late May, including about 1,500 Nigerians.
Despite being less active on the road in recent years because of health concerns, Keita continues to perform internationally. His latest decision has now placed him among prominent African voices speaking out against xenophobia and violence directed at migrants.
For Keita, the message is simple: his disagreement is not with South Africa or its people, but with violence against Africans seeking work, safety and a better life.
