Malian music icon Salif Keïta has canceled upcoming South African performances, including at the Macufe Festival in Free State province, citing concerns over xenophobic violence against African migrants. The 77-year-old singer said he could not ignore reports of attacks on migrants seeking work and safety, framing his withdrawal as “a rejection of hate” rather than of South Africans themselves. His cancellation comes amid protests demanding that undocumented migrants leave the country, with another nationwide demonstration planned for September 30. More than 160,000 people have reportedly left South Africa since May, including citizens of Malawi, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Ghana and Nigeria. The Free State government expressed disappointment over Keïta’s decision, emphasizing that the Macufe Festival promotes African unity.