My Brother's Keeper

According to organisers, the song was produced to build awareness around refugee rights ahead of World Refugee Day, commemorated annually on June 20. It was created to promote tolerance and peaceful coexistence between locals and foreigners, including refugees and asylum-seekers.

The accompanying music video features well-known South African actors, and tells the story of a group of young South Africans who rob and vandalise a shop run by a Somalian family. The youth are caught by other South Africans in the community, who force them to return to the shop owner and give back what they stole.

The video involved active participation of the youth from several South African townships, as well as the Somali and refugee communities. Organisers say there is a joint interest in curbing xenophobic violence, and more focus is needed on the positive role that both sides can play to ensure peace and tolerance.

Refugees, Human Rights

The music video is the first part of a year-long project whereby the UNHCR is working to use a number of South African celebrities stars to educate their fans on the rights of refugees and the benefits of unity and integration in local communities. According to organisers, since xenophobia-related attacks erupted in South African townships in May 2008, there have been continuous sporadic attacks occurring across the country. Many refugees continue to live in fear, as their businesses and homes are often attacked and looted. Most recently, foreigners are being asked to close legally operating businesses or face being vandalised.