When South Africa’s xenophobia affects arts in Malawi

The local entertainment scene is always colourful with artists both lfrom Malawi and other countries. One of the countries that the local scene ussually go to for that added flavour is South Africa. Many local festivals and events usually have one or two South African artists to perform in Malawi.

Recently, musician Daliwonga perform both in Blantyre and Lilongwe while Mawhow performed in Lilongwe. Just this past weekend, a renowned South African DJ was in the country to headline a DJs festival in Lilongwe. Other regular South African artists who visit and perform in Malawi are Makhadzi, Kelly Khumalo, Master KG and many others.

But following the recent attacks Likoma Island Festival (Life) organising team says it has suspended negotiations with a South African musician as a gesture of solidarity with immigrants facing xenophibia in South According to a statement released on Thursday by the festival organisers, the decision was made in response to reports of xenophobic attacks, illegitimate removals, discrimination, violence and exclusion of immigrants’ communities in South Africa. “While every country has the right to manage immigration matters, such processes should be conducted lawfully, professionally and with full respect for human rights and human dignity,” reads the statement in part. It further noted that South Africa has institutions for handling immigration issues and that these structures should be allowed to carry out their mandate.

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The organisers said they will continue monitoring developments and remain open to future engagement when circumstances align with the festival’s values and principles. In an interview with Malawi News Agency, the festival’s executive director Patrick Chikoti said the name of the artist has not been disclosed out of respect as it is not the artist’s personal problem that has resulted into the suspension of the discussions. Commenting on the development, an arts ethusiast, John Chitimbe said though the decision by Life may not have lasting impact, it is giving a powerful statement.

“As Malawians and as Africans, we clearly understand the frustrations of some South Africans. But their choice to attack and kill fellow Africans is wrong. There are other methods that they could choose,” he said.

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