KAMPALA – The Government of Uganda has announced plans to evacuate its nationals from South Africa following months of escalating anti-migrant violence and xenophobic attacks targeting foreign communities.
The announcement was made by the Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo, who said President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni had directed urgent arrangements for the safe return of Ugandans.
“His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of the Republic of Uganda, has directed that arrangements be made for the evacuation of Ugandan nationals from South Africa,” Hon. Kasolo said.
Hon. Kasolo said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in coordination with several government agencies and the Uganda High Commission in Pretoria, is finalising an evacuation plan expected to commence within days.
He attributed the decision to the continued insecurity facing foreign nationals in parts of South Africa. “Following the escalating anti-migrant violence and xenophobic protests by vigilante groups over the past few months,” he said.
According to the ministry, 746 Ugandans have so far voluntarily registered for evacuation due to safety concerns, with more expected to come forward.
“Currently, 746 Ugandans have voluntarily registered and sought assistance for evacuation due to security and safety concerns, and more are expected to register,” Hon. Kasolo said.
He explained that the evacuation process will include registration of affected nationals across South African provinces, relocation to safe assembly centres, issuance of emergency travel documents where necessary, and coordination with immigration authorities.
The government also confirmed that Uganda Airlines will operate special charter flights for the evacuation exercise, fully funded by the state.
“In collaboration with the Ministry of Works and Transport, arrangements are being made for Uganda Airlines to provide special charter flights for the evacuation exercise. These flights will be funded by the Government of Uganda,” he said.
Hon. Kasolo urged Ugandans in South Africa who wish to return home to urgently register with the Uganda High Commission in Pretoria. “Ugandans living in South Africa who would like to leave are therefore advised to urgently register and contact the Uganda Embassy in Pretoria,” he said.
He added that the government continues diplomatic engagement with South African authorities to ensure the safety of Ugandans who choose to remain.
“The Government of Uganda continues to engage the Government of the Republic of South Africa on this matter to ensure the security and safety of Ugandan nationals still residing there,” he noted.
The ministry also confirmed a tragic incident involving the death of a Ugandan national in KwaZulu-Natal Province.
“On a sad note, the Government regrets to report that one Ugandan lost his life following an attack in KwaZulu-Natal Province. We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved family,” Hon. Kasolo said.
Preparations are underway to repatriate the body to Uganda as part of ongoing consular support efforts.
The evacuation plan comes amid broader regional concerns over rising xenophobic incidents in South Africa, which have in past years affected several African communities.