Online Reporter
South African singer Makhadzi has appealed for African unity after reports emerged that some Zimbabwean activists and political figures are calling for South African artists to be boycotted in Zimbabwe.
The backlash comes amid heightened tensions following anti-illegal immigration protests in South Africa and the repatriation of foreign nationals from countries including Ghana, Malawi, Zimbabwe and Nigeria.
Makhadzi, who is scheduled to co-headline the Cheso Power Festival in Zimbabwe on July 31 alongside Alick Macheso in Harare, took to Facebook to share a message promoting unity across the continent.
In a poster shared with her followers, the award-winning performer described herself as “Proudly African” and the “Queen of African Music”, while encouraging solidarity beyond national borders.
Among the key messages featured on the poster were:
“Ubuntu knows no borders.”
“Respect knows every law.”
“Africa is our home, music is our voice.”
The post quickly sparked debate online, with supporters and critics sharing differing views.
One Facebook user, Maenje Ngwembe, defended the singer, writing: “Leave Makhadzi alone. She has always been an advocate of African unity, collaborating with different African artists, performing there, and even making songs in their language. If you judge her because of a certain group from her country, then you are not different from them. I am a Malawian, and I love her music.”
Others believed that the timing of her message was less appropriate.
Thulisile Nkosi commented jokingly: “Khadzi Khadzi, not now baby girl. Bookings in other African countries are cancelled. Dance here at home.”
Zimbabwean supporter Irene Shaba struck a more conciliatory tone, saying: “I personally don’t have a problem with you coming to perform in Zimbabwe, but my fellow friends don’t think the same. It will blow over soon and you will come and bless us with your music.”
Meanwhile, Rudzani Maila suggested that remaining silent may have been a better approach.
“Makhadzi, this is not the right time. Sometimes keep quiet, remain neutral and win big in both worlds. Sometimes silence is power,” the user wrote.
Despite the criticism surrounding her planned Zimbabwe performance, Makhadzi has continued to enjoy strong support on the continent.
During a recent visit to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the “MaGear” hitmaker was greeted by hundreds of enthusiastic fans.
A video shared on social media showed supporters surrounding the e-hailing vehicle she was travelling in. In the excitement, the vehicle’s bumper and side mirror were accidentally torn off.
The singer later assured fans that she was unharmed, describing the incident as an overwhelming display of love from her Congolese supporters.
The latest controversy comes just days after Makhadzi celebrated her 30th birthday on June 30.
As part of the celebrations, she released a song, “Tsotsi” and gifted herself a mansion, marking another major personal milestone in her flourishing career – IOL.
