Veteran Nollywood actor Kanayo O. Kanayo has called for an end to xenophobic attacks in South Africa while receiving an honour at the 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards.
The actor made the appeal on Saturday during his acceptance speech after being presented with the Industry Merit Award.
Speaking on stage, Kanayo dedicated the award to actors, filmmakers and crew members across Africa, while acknowledging the sacrifices made by pioneers in the movie industry.
“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.
Reflecting on his decades-long career, the actor spoke emotionally about survival and sacrifice in the entertainment industry.
“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.
Kanayo also appealed to Canal+ to continue supporting African storytelling and entertainment.
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“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 stated.
The veteran actor, however, used the moment to address the recurring xenophobic violence in South Africa, urging Africans to reject attacks against fellow Africans.
“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.
Prompt News reports veteran actress Sola Sobowale, who also received the Industry Merit Award at the ceremony, thanked fans and colleagues for supporting her throughout her acting career.
