NACZ Urges Promoters to Delay South African Shows Amid Rising Xenophobic Attacks
The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) has appealed to local event promoters to consider postponing performances by South African musicians, citing growing public tensions stemming from reported xenophobic attacks in South Africa.
The council says the recommendation is a preventive measure designed to protect both visiting performers and concertgoers, rather than a move aimed at excluding South African artistes from Zimbabwe’s entertainment scene.
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Safety Concerns Take Centre Stage
NACZ chief executive officer Napoleon Nyanhi said organisers should carefully assess the current public mood before proceeding with major events involving South African acts.
He noted that discussions on social media have intensified in recent days, with some Zimbabweans calling for scheduled performances by South African artistes to be put on hold until tensions ease.
According to Nyanhi, the council’s position is based on concerns that emotions surrounding the issue could create unnecessary security risks at large public gatherings.
Public Sentiment Should Guide Planning
Speaking on Star FM, Nyanhi stressed that postponing concerts should not be viewed as discrimination against South African performers but as a practical decision in the interest of public safety.
He said Zimbabweans continue to appreciate South African music and maintain strong support for the country’s entertainers. However, he warned that the prevailing atmosphere could expose artistes to situations beyond their control if isolated groups decide to disrupt performances.
Nyanhi mentioned popular acts such as Mafikizolo, Makhadzi and Daliwonga, saying the concern is not about their popularity but about ensuring they perform under safer circumstances.
Fear of Disruptions at Major Events
The NACZ chief executive warned that concerts attracting thousands of fans could become difficult to manage if tensions spill into entertainment venues.
He said even if the majority of attendees are there to enjoy the performances, a small number of disruptive individuals could create serious security challenges for organisers and law enforcement.
Nyanhi cautioned that such incidents could force performers to abandon shows or even result in injuries, despite the fact that any anger would not necessarily be directed at the artistes personally.
Council Calls for Caution
The arts council says its appeal is intended to encourage responsible planning while regional tensions continue to be monitored.
NACZ emphasised that the objective is to prevent avoidable incidents and ensure the safety of both Zimbabwean audiences and visiting South African performers until the situation stabilises.
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