By Monsurat Abisoye
The South African government has expressed concern over the economic consequences of xenophobia allegations, revealing that some of its citizens and businesses abroad are suffering financial losses as a result.
Speaking in an interview with SABC on Sunday, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, said the recent mass evacuation of foreign nationals from South Africa targeted illegal immigrants and should not be viewed as an act of xenophobia.
Kubayi acknowledged that the country was experiencing backlash from other African nations, affecting South African businesses and entertainers operating outside its borders.
“We can’t deny the backlash,” she said, adding that the government, alongside relevant agencies, had been engaging with South African companies abroad and providing support, including consular services. She noted that Minister Alamola had held meetings with affected businesses on the continent and beyond.
The minister also disclosed that several South African artists had seen their performances cancelled across Africa, resulting in a loss of income. According to her, one entertainer informed her that all scheduled shows on the continent had been called off.
Kubayi urged African countries to distinguish between illegal immigrants and foreign nationals residing legally within their borders, stressing that those staying lawfully should be protected in the same way South Africans expect their own citizens abroad to be treated.
The development comes amid growing tensions linked to recent xenophobic incidents in South Africa, which prompted countries including Nigeria, Ghana, and Malawi to evacuate some of their citizens from the country.
Meanwhile, South Africa captain Ronwen Williams recently voiced disappointment over what he described as a lack of solidarity from fellow Africans during Bafana Bafana’s 2-0 defeat to co-hosts Mexico in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The result left South Africa facing a difficult path in Group A as they seek qualification for the knockout stage. Williams said he was surprised that many African supporters appeared to back Mexico instead of an African representative at the tournament.
“Africans have always supported other African countries in every World Cup tournament, but I can’t figure out why our own case is different,” he said. “Many Africans supported Mexico, not us, the South Africans. We almost shed tears, but it’s truly sad.”
South African authorities maintain that recent enforcement actions were directed at illegal immigration, even as concerns over xenophobic attacks continue to strain relations with several African countries.