By Zuko Komisa
Legendary Malian musician Salif Keita has cancelled all scheduled commercial performances in South Africa following reports of rising xenophobic violence targeting African migrants.
In a deeply emotional open letter, the “Golden Voice of Africa” stated that the ongoing hostilites represent a painful departure from the principles of unity and shared struggle that once defined the nation’s liberation movement.
Keita, who famously stood against apartheid by performing at the historic 1988 Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday Tribute concert at Wembley Stadium, explained that the same moral conscience forces him to distance himself from commercial stages in South Africa today.
Emphasising that his decision is a firm stance against targeted violence rather than a rejection of the South African people, Keita declared,
“I close the door on hate, but my heart remains open to the vision of an Africa where every human being can live without fear.”
While acknowledging the severe economic and social hardships facing local citizens, Keita stressed that domestic frustrations must not be weaponised against fellow Africans, reminding his audience that colonial borders are merely artificial divisions that should never compromise shared humanity.
Although stepping away from commercial venues, Keita clarified that he is not abandoning the country entirely.
He expressed a willingness to perform in non-commercial settings, such as local townships, or any venue where music can foster community dialogue, healing, and the spirit of ubuntu, hoping to return when solidarity and peace prevail.
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