South African artists should not perform in Zimbabwe

Lawyer and former opposition Member of Parliament Fadzayi Mahere says this is not an appropriate time for South African artists to perform in Zimbabwe, citing the plight of Zimbabweans affected by anti-immigration tensions in South Africa.

Her remarks come as hundreds of Zimbabweans have sought assistance after fleeing areas where anti-immigration protests have intensified, with many reportedly spending hours in the cold and rain while seeking help from Zimbabwean authorities.

The latest wave of anxiety followed calls by anti-immigration groups, including the March and March Movement, for undocumented foreign nationals to leave South Africa by June 30 or face possible action.

Against that backdrop, telecommunications company Econet Wireless Zimbabwe had announced South African award-winning music duo Mafikizolo among the headline acts for its Buddie Beatz concert scheduled for July 5 in Victoria Falls.

The duo had been expected to perform alongside Zimbabwean artists, including Winky D and Killer T, as part of Econet's Buddie Beatz entertainment platform.

Commenting on the announcement, Mahere said Zimbabwean organisations should show solidarity with citizens affected by the developments in South Africa.

"Given the current climate, bringing in South African artists to perform in Zimbabwe would be a gross failure to read the room," Mahere said.

"Our brothers, sisters, relatives and friends are squatting in the rain, choked by fear and in danger of losing their livelihoods."

She urged Zimbabweans to stand in solidarity with those affected by the unfolding situation.

"Now, more than ever, they need our solidarity. Let's spare a thought for those who are victims of another round of suffering, having fled poverty, hunger and ZANU PF's general reign of terror.

"Let's do the right thing," she said.

Mahere's comments echoed sentiments expressed by some social media users who questioned the inclusion of South African performers while Zimbabweans were returning home amid heightened uncertainty across the border.

Econet has since released updated promotional material for the Buddie Beatz concert showing an all-Zimbabwean headline line-up, with Mafikizolo no longer listed among the performers. The company has not publicly explained the change.

The anti-immigration campaign in South Africa has prompted thousands of foreign nationals from across the region to return to their home countries, with Zimbabwean authorities saying more than 3,600 citizens have already been repatriated while others continue to await processing by South African authorities.