Veteran Nollywood actor Kanayo O. Kanayo has used his platform at the 12th Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards to call for an end to xenophobic violence in South Africa, urging greater unity among Africans.
The actor made the appeal on Saturday after being honoured with the Industry Merit Award, which he dedicated to film professionals across the continent while also paying tribute to industry veterans.
“This is for Africa, for everyone who works as cast and crew. Even before 1992, many of us are no longer in good health, many have returned to their villages, and many have passed on,” he said.
He also reflected on his career journey and the sacrifices made within the film industry, questioning longevity and service in the profession.
“Sometimes, when you stand on a stage like this, you ask yourself, ‘What have I done to still be alive?’ Yes, I have made a lot of sacrifices,” he added.
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Kanayo further appealed to media conglomerate Canal+ to sustain its support for African cinema, describing it as a unifying force for the continent.
“I want to extend a hand of friendship to Canal+, please keep this going. This is one thing that unites the whole of Africa,” he said.
Turning his attention to insecurity issues in South Africa, the actor expressed displeasure over repeated xenophobic incidents and called for collective action against them.
On this note, I am not happy about what is going on in South Africa today. Let us lend our voices against xenophobia in South Africa. We are not happy. As Africans, we cannot continue running from Africa,” he said.