By Emily Setona
QWAQWA – International music legend Salif Keita has withdrawn from the 2026 Mangaung African Cultural Festival (MACUFE), citing “xenophobic violence” against African migrants in South Africa.
The Free State Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation (DSACR) confirmed the cancellation in a statement on Wednesday, 26 August.
In his statement, Keita said South Africa had welcomed him for decades “as a brother, not just an artist.” But he said he could no longer perform at commercial shows while fellow Africans were being attacked for seeking work, safety and dignity.
“The same conscience that led me to stand with Nelson Mandela at Wembley in 1988 now compels me to step away,” Keita said, referring to his performance at the 1988 Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday Tribute concert.
He stressed the boycott was not aimed at South Africans.
“This is a protest against hatred towards fellow Africans. Economic frustrations should not become hatred. Colonial borders should not divide our shared humanity,” he said.
Keita made it clear he is not turning his back on South Africa completely.
He said he remains open to performing in “community settings where music can contribute to healing, dignity and ubuntu.
“DSACR said it “regrettably accepts” Keita’s decision and will follow “all requisite steps for redress in line with contract terms.”
But the department moved to calm festival-goers, saying the show will go on.
“The 2026 MACUFE programme will proceed uninterrupted. A dynamic artistic line-up has been put in place and will continue to entertain attendees,” the statement read.
*BLOW TO FESTIVAL*
Keita’s withdrawal is a major blow to MACUFE patrons who were expecting the Afro-pop icon to headline.
MACUFE, now in its 26th year, remains positioned as a platform for “African unity, social cohesion and cultural pride.”
The festival is set to take place in Mangaung later this year.
