Veteran Nollywood actor Kanayo O. Kanayo has spoken out against the ongoing xenophobia-related tensions and attacks on Africans in South Africa while receiving the Industry Merit Award at the 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA).
The celebrated actor used his acceptance speech at the award ceremony to call on Africans across the continent and in the diaspora to speak up against attacks targeting fellow Africans.
According to him, Africans must not remain silent or pretend that the situation is normal, stressing the need for unity and collective action against xenophobia.
Kanayo said Africans should rise together and defend one another instead of ignoring acts of violence and discrimination happening within the continent.
His remarks drew reactions from attendees and online users, with many praising the actor for using the platform to address issues affecting Africans beyond the entertainment industry.
The Industry Merit Award was presented to Kanayo in recognition of his longstanding contribution to Nollywood and the African film industry.