Justice Minister Kubayi denies anti-foreigner targeting, says crackdown focused on illegal immigrants amid growing continental fallout

The South African government has raised concerns over the growing economic and reputational fallout from recent xenophobia claims, revealing that its citizens and businesses are now paying the price across Africa and beyond.

Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, acknowledged the backlash on Sunday, noting that South African artistes are losing performances while businesses abroad face mounting challenges.

Speaking in an interview with SABC, Kubayi insisted that recent evacuations and enforcement actions in the country were not driven by xenophobia but were aimed strictly at undocumented African immigrants.

“We cannot deny the backlash,” she said. “That is why government, working with relevant agencies, is actively engaging South African businesses operating abroad. We are providing support and consular services to help them navigate the situation.”

She disclosed that several artistes have already suffered financial losses due to cancelled shows across the continent.

“Many of our artistes depend heavily on performances within Africa, and now those opportunities are being withdrawn. One even told me all her bookings across the continent were cancelled. That’s a direct loss of income,” Kubayi added.

The minister urged African countries to distinguish between illegal immigration enforcement and lawful residents, calling for the protection of South Africans living abroad.

“Let’s address illegal immigration responsibly. Those who are in your countries legally should be treated with the same protection you expect for your own citizens,” she said.

The tensions come amid reports of xenophobic attacks in South Africa, which have prompted countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, and Malawi to evacuate their nationals.

The situation has also spilled into the sporting arena. South Africa’s national team captain, Ronwen Williams, recently expressed disappointment over what he described as a lack of continental solidarity during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Following Bafana Bafana’s 2-0 loss to Mexico, Williams said he was surprised to see many African fans supporting the opposing team.

“Africans have always backed one another at the World Cup, but this time was different,” he said. “Seeing support go to Mexico instead of us was painful.”

As tensions persist, the South African government faces increasing pressure to repair its image and rebuild trust across the continent.