SALIF KEITA CANCELS SOUTH AFRICA SHOWS OVER XENOPHOBIC VIOLENCE CONCERNS

Malian music star SALIF KEITA has called off his upcoming commercial performances in South Africa amid concerns over xenophobic violence targeting African migrants.

His manager, CAROLINA VALLEJO of One World Records, confirmed the cancellation, while the music star said reports of violence against African migrants could not be ignored, describing the decision to withdraw from the shows as painful.

The decision comes amid renewed anti-migrant sentiments and protests against illegal immigration in South Africa, with some demonstrations turning deadly and thousands of migrants leaving the country since late May.

Despite the cancellation of his commercial performances, KEITA said he remains willing to return to South Africa for events that encourage dialogue, unity and healing, reflecting his longstanding ties to the country.