Cachalia says South Africa still awaits French report on Nathi Mthethwa’s death

Famed Malian artist Salif Keïta has canceled his scheduled performance at the Macufe festival in South Africa's Free State province, citing reports of xenophobic violence. The cancellation has been met with disappointment in the province hosting the event. South Africa is grappling with a wave of protests demanding the departure of undocumented migrants, with a deadline of 30 September now set.

Thousands of Africans have been repatriated in recent months, some claiming they faced intimidation and attacks. While combating illegal immigration, the South African government asserts that those who have taken matters into their own hands have been arrested. In a statement, Keïta expressed his inability to accept reports of violence against fellow Africans, insisting he perceives the issue as a matter of people seeking work, safety, and dignity rather than politics.

The 77-year-old musician, known as the "Golden Voice of Africa," emphasized that his decision is a rejection of hate, not South Africans. The Free State's culture department expressed regret over Keïta's decision, noting that the festival aims to celebrate African unity. Keïta, a pioneer in bringing African music to the global stage, remains influential after five decades in the industry.

The cancellation occurs as the first group of 173 Tanzanians returns from South Africa as part of a voluntary repatriation program.