Mali music star Salif Keïta cancels South African concerts over 'xenophobic violence'
Malian musician Salif Keïta has cancelled his upcoming South African tour in protest against recent xenophobic violence targeting migrants. The decision highlights growing social tensions in South Africa regarding immigration and economic pressure.
Why it matters
The cancellation underscores the impact of social unrest on cultural exchange and the international perception of South Africa's domestic policies.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Damian Zane , Alfred Lasteck , BBC Africa, Dar es Salaam and Thomas Naadi , BBC Africa, Accra Andalou Agency via Getty Images Salif Keïta said the xenophobia did not "match the South Africa I know" The decision by world-famous Malian musician Salif Keïta to stop touring in South Africa over what he called "xenophobic violence" has been met with disappointment by the province hosting a festival he was due to perform at next month.
South Africa has been hit by a wave of protests demanding that undocumented migrants leave the country - the latest unofficial deadline set is 30 September.
Tens of thousands of Africans have been voluntarily repatriated in recent months, some saying they have been the targets of intimidation and attacks.
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