The South African government has expressed concern over the growing economic and diplomatic consequences of recent xenophobic violence, noting that the attacks and subsequent evacuation of African migrants have triggered widespread condemnation across the continent.

Speaking during an interview with SABC on Sunday, South Africa’s Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, acknowledged that the country was experiencing significant backlash, with South African entertainers and businesses increasingly feeling the impact abroad.

According to Kubayi, the government has been engaging with companies operating outside South Africa in an effort to address the fallout. She explained that authorities, working through relevant government agencies, have intensified discussions with businesses and are providing support, including consular assistance, to South African firms affected across Africa and beyond.

The minister noted that many South African musicians depend heavily on performances in other African countries and are now facing cancellations as a result of the negative sentiment generated by the attacks. She revealed that at least one artist had informed her that all scheduled performances across the continent had been called off, resulting in substantial financial losses.

Kubayi stressed that the situation was not only damaging the country’s image but also affecting the livelihoods of South Africans who rely on cross-border economic and cultural engagements. She urged that efforts to address concerns about illegal immigration should not come at the expense of migrants who are legally residing in the country, emphasizing that lawful residents deserve the same protection South Africans would expect in foreign nations.

The recent surge in xenophobic incidents has prompted several African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana and Malawi, to begin evacuating their citizens from South Africa amid fears for their safety.

In response to the escalating tensions, President Cyril Ramaphosa last week warned citizens against taking the law into their own hands by stopping individuals in public places and demanding proof of nationality. He pledged decisive action against those involved in xenophobic attacks and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order while protecting all people living within South Africa’s borders.