Legendary Malian singer-songwriter Salif Keita has withdrawn as the headline international act for the upcoming Mangaung African Cultural Festival (MACUFE) Main Festival, citing concerns over reports of xenophobic violence against migrants in South Africa.

The 76-year-old Afro-pop icon was scheduled to headline the festival in Bloemfontein on 12 September, following the high-profile launch of the 2026 festival programme on 31 July at the War Museum of the Boer Republics.

In an emotional statement posted on Facebook, Keita said his decision was driven by conscience rather than a rejection of South Africa or its people.

“To my beloved brothers and sisters in South Africa, and across the continent,” Keita wrote. “For over fifty years, Africa has not just been a place I visit — it is who I am. South Africa, in particular, has always welcomed me as a brother, not just an artist.”

Keita said reports of attacks on migrants had deeply troubled him.

“I cannot ignore the reports of xenophobic violence against our African brothers and sisters. When I see migrants attacked, I do not see ‘politics’,” he said.

A longtime advocate for Pan-African unity and human rights, Keita also reflected on his historic ties with South Africa. He recalled performing at Wembley Stadium in 1988 during the celebrations for Nelson Mandela’s 70th birthday, highlighting the solidarity between South Africa and Mali during the apartheid era.

He stressed that his decision should not be interpreted as a permanent rejection of the country.

“To be clear — I am not closing the door on South Africa. I am closing the door on violence,” Keita said.

Despite withdrawing from commercial performances, the music veteran said he remained willing to participate in grassroots initiatives aimed at promoting healing, dialogue and unity.

“If there is a stage in a township, I will sing there... When the time is right, I will return — not for applause but for healing, dignity and ubuntu,” he said.

The Free State Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation (SACR) expressed regret over Keita’s withdrawal but confirmed that MACUFE 2026 would continue as planned.

“The Department accepts it and will follow any requisite steps for redress in line with the contract terms entered into with the artist,” said the department Spokesperson Tankiso Zola.

“We share in the disappointment of all MACUFE patrons who were eagerly anticipating the performance of this preeminent artist.”

The department, however, assured festivalgoers that the withdrawal would not derail the event.

“The 2026 MACUFE programme will proceed uninterrupted. A dynamic artistic line-up has been put in place and will continue to entertain the attendees,” he said.

Keita’s withdrawal is set to cast a spotlight on the broader challenges of xenophobia and African solidarity, while MACUFE organisers face the task of maintaining the festival’s momentum without one of its biggest international attractions.