An antigay pastor who praised the June shooting massacre at Pulse Nightclub in Orlando that left dozens dead has been banned from visiting South Africa for promoting hate speech.

South Africa's home affairs minister banned Pastor Steven Anderson and his associates from entering the country, describing them as "undesirable persons" who criticize homosexuality and promote hate speech.

Anderson had intended to visit South Africa this week, until he learned that he was “not welcome there.”

"I have identified Steven Anderson and members and/or associates of his church as undesirable persons," Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba said in a statement.

"I have withdrawn their visa exemption status, enjoyed by all Americans ... on the basis that I am certain they promote hate speech as well as advocate social violence."

While homosexuality is illegal in many countries in Africa, South Africa is extremely progressive when it comes to LGBT rights. It was the first country in Africa to impose a constitutional ban on discrimination based on sexual orientation.

South African anti-discrimination legislation is there to "prevent and prohibit hate speech and harassment," which is why Anderson will not enter the country, Gigaba said.

Anderson, who leads the Faithful Word Baptist Church in Tempe, Arizona, said he will instead visit Botswana, writing in a message on Facebook: "Stand by for reports of multitudes saved in Botswana, where religious freedom still exists.”

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