Mwenje Mathole cancels Joburg album launch amid xenophobic attacks
Afro-fusion artist Mwenje Mathole has cancelled his highly anticipated Johannesburg album launch, citing safety concerns linked to rising xenophobic tensions in South Africa. The event, dubbed “Vomwenje SA Album Launch,” had been scheduled for May 1 at HardRock Café in Sandton. Mathole’s decision comes amid a surge in anti-immigrant protests in parts of Johannesburg, where […] The post Mwenje Mathole cancels Joburg album launch amid xenophobic attacks appeared first on NewZimbabwe.com.
Black News 
Afro-fusion artist Mwenje Mathole has cancelled his highly anticipated Johannesburg album launch, citing safety concerns linked to rising xenophobic tensions in South Africa.
The event, dubbed “Vomwenje SA Album Launch,” had been scheduled for May 1 at HardRock Café in Sandton.
Mathole’s decision comes amid a surge in anti-immigrant protests in parts of Johannesburg, where demonstrators have taken to the streets demanding the expulsion of foreign nationals.
Protesters accuse undocumented migrants of taking jobs and placing strain on public services, sentiments that have in the past fueled periodic outbreaks of xenophobic violence in the country.
In a statement shared on his social media platforms, Mathole confirmed the cancellation and assured fans of full refunds.
“We regret to inform you that due to the current circumstances in Johannesburg, we are cancelling the show for now.
“We have been advised to postpone the event to a later date for the sake of our fans and friends.
“All tickets purchased will be fully refunded.”
The development adds to growing concern among Zimbabwean entertainers and citizens in South Africa, a country that hosts a significant Zimbabwean diaspora but has also seen recurring xenophobic unrest over the years.
Recent reports have indicated heightened tensions in some communities, with protests targeting foreign-owned businesses and undocumented migrants. While authorities in South Africa have called for calm, the situation remains volatile in certain areas.
Zimbabwean authorities have since urged its nationals living in South Africa to remain vigilant and avoid areas where anti-immigration demonstrations are taking place.
No new date for the album launch has been announced.
The post Mwenje Mathole cancels Joburg album launch amid xenophobic attacks appeared first on NewZimbabwe.com.
