PICTURE: INSTAGRAM/@THEREALSALIFKEITA
Malian music legend Salif Keïta has cancelled his upcoming commercial performances in South Africa, citing concerns over reports of xenophobic violence against African migrants.
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The 76-year-old singer announced the decision in a statement on Tuesday, saying he could not ignore reports of migrants being attacked amid anti-immigrant protests in the country. His manager, Carolina Vallejo of One World Records, subsequently confirmed the cancellation to AFP.
Salif did not specify the dates or venues of all the performances affected by his decision. However, reports indicate that he was scheduled to perform at the Mangaung African Cultural Festival (MACUFE) in the Free State, which was to take place from 3 to 13 September, Mail & Guardian reports.
‘I am closing the door on violence’
Explaining his decision, Salif said he was deeply concerned by reports of attacks against African migrants.
The veteran musician stressed that his decision was not a rejection of South Africa or its people, but rather a response to the violence and hostility directed at migrants.
“To be clear – I am not closing the door on South Africa. I am closing the door on violence,” he said.
Salif said that when he sees migrants being attacked, he sees people looking for work, safety and dignity rather than simply a political issue. He added that the situation did not reflect the South Africa he knew, recalling the country’s history of solidarity with Mali and the legacy of former president Nelson Mandela.
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Salif Keïta has a long history with South Africa
The singer has a longstanding connection with South Africa.
According to The Citizen, in 1988, Salif performed at the Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday Tribute concert at Wembley Stadium in London, an event that celebrated Mandela and drew international attention to the anti-apartheid struggle.
Salif referenced that history when explaining his decision to step away from his scheduled commercial performances.
Despite cancelling the shows, he made it clear that he has not ruled out returning to South Africa.
‘I am not closing the door on South Africa’
Salif said he would be willing to return when the circumstances are right, particularly for performances that could contribute to dialogue and healing.
He said he would even perform in a township if the opportunity allowed communities to be heard, emphasising that his intention was not to turn his back on South Africa.
His decision comes after a series of anti-immigration demonstrations in South Africa, some of which have turned violent. The protests have focused largely on undocumented migrants and have included campaigns by groups demanding tougher action against illegal immigration.
The Free State’s Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation confirmed Salif’s withdrawal from the 2026 festival and expressed regret over the decision.
For now, the cancellation marks a significant moment for the South African entertainment industry, with one of Africa’s most celebrated musicians using his withdrawal to raise concerns about the treatment of migrants.
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