Moroe made the clarification amid renewed controversy over South Africa’s treatment of Nigerians and other African nationals, particularly after South African singer Tyla announced Nigeria as one of the stops on her upcoming tour.
Some Nigerians had called for Tyla to be denied entry into Nigeria, citing the previous denial of Ayra Starr’s visa to South Africa.
However, speaking to PUNCH, Moroe said Ayra Starr’s visa issue occurred in February 2024 and was not connected to her nationality, profession or status as an artiste.
According to him, Starr’s team submitted a yellow fever certificate issued by another country instead of the required certificate from her home country.
“One of the challenges was that they did not submit an appropriate yellow fever certificate. They submitted the yellow fever certificate of another country when they were supposed to submit the yellow fever certificate of their home country,” he said.
Moroe explained that the matter was later resolved after the South African mission engaged with Starr’s team and clarified the visa requirements.
“Subsequently, the matter was resolved amicably and they were granted a one-year visa to go and perform in South Africa in 2024, and I think that was what they forgot to mention,” he added.
The diplomat also dismissed suggestions that Ayra Starr was treated differently because she is Nigerian, insisting that South African immigration laws apply to everyone regardless of their status.
“I do not see the relevance of that rejection to the development of today, except for using that rejection to sow division,” Moroe said.
He added: “If you meet the requirement for a visa, whether you are a star or not, tall, short, black or white, if you qualify, you will get it. But if you don’t, regardless of who you are, the immigration section will uphold the immigration law of the country.”
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