Salif Keita cancels South African concerts amid anti-migrant protests
Malian singer Salif Keita has cancelled his upcoming concerts in South Africa, citing concerns over xenophobic violence against migrants. In a heartfelt statement, he expresses his solidarity with those affected and reflects on the values of safety and dignity.
Malian singer Salif Keita has cancelled upcoming concerts in South Africa due to anti-migrant protests, his spokesperson informed AFP. South Africa experienced a series of marches against illegal immigration earlier this year, which at times turned violent. Keita expressed his disapproval of reports of xenophobic violence against African citizens in a Facebook post.
He stated that the cancellation was a painful decision, without specifying the dates or venues of the shows. His manager confirmed the decision to AFP. Despite a career spanning over 50 years, the 76-year-old artist continues to tour, albeit less frequently due to medical reasons. Keita emphasized that the closure was not directed at South Africa, but at the violence targeting migrants.
He urged people not to see migrants as political issues, but as individuals seeking work, safety, and dignity. According to AFP, over 160,000 people have left South Africa since late May, with around 1,500 Nigerians among them.
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