South African Artists Lose Gigs Across Africa as Xenophobia Claims Spread

South Africa has acknowledged that rising accusations of xenophobia are now damaging its economy. Local artists and businesses are facing canceled contracts and lost opportunities in other African countries. The trend follows a series of incidents and online campaigns that have labeled South Africa as hostile to foreign nationals. Officials say the backlash is hurting the nation’s creative sector, with performers losing concert bookings and corporate deals across the continent. The government has not yet announced specific measures to reverse the economic impact.