Makhadzi appeals for African unity as boycott calls intensify

South African music star Makhadzi has appealed for unity across the continent after calls emerged in Zimbabwe for South African artists to be boycotted amid tensions over anti-immigration protests in South Africa.

The award-winning performer made the appeal on social media ahead of her scheduled appearance at the Cheso Power Festival in Harare on July 31, where she is due to share the stage with Zimbabwean sungura legend Alick Macheso. Her message comes as some activists and political figures in Zimbabwe have urged organisers to cancel performances by South African artists in response to the treatment of foreign nationals in South Africa.

In a Facebook post, Makhadzi described herself as “Proudly African” and encouraged people to look beyond national borders. The message promoted values of unity, mutual respect and shared African identity, stressing that music should bring people together rather than deepen divisions.

Her comments quickly sparked debate online.

Some supporters defended the Limpopo-born singer, arguing that she has consistently collaborated with artists from across Africa and should not be blamed for the actions of politicians or anti-immigration groups in her home country. Others, however, questioned the timing of her message, suggesting she should have remained silent until tensions ease.

Several Zimbabwean fans adopted a more conciliatory tone, expressing hope that emotions would eventually settle and that Makhadzi would still be welcomed to perform in Harare. At the same time, some social media users argued that cultural boycotts were a legitimate way of expressing frustration over recent attacks and hostility directed at foreign nationals living in South Africa.

Despite the controversy, Makhadzi continues to enjoy enormous popularity elsewhere on the continent. During a recent visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo, hundreds of fans surrounded the vehicle transporting her in an enthusiastic welcome. The excitement became so intense that parts of the vehicle were accidentally damaged before security managed to move her safely away. The singer later reassured fans that she was unharmed and thanked them for the overwhelming support.

The latest debate follows a milestone period in Makhadzi’s career. The singer recently celebrated her 30th birthday by releasing her new single, Tsotsi, and marking the occasion with the purchase of a new mansion, which she described as a personal reward for years of hard work.

The controversy surrounding her planned Zimbabwe performance reflects wider regional tensions over migration and xenophobia. While some campaigners are calling for cultural boycotts of South African performers, others argue that artists should not be held responsible for political disputes or the actions of anti-immigration groups.