Politics
Uganda Launches Evacuation of Nationals from South Africa Amid Rising Xenophobic Violence
Following rising xenophobic attacks, Uganda has launched an urgent evacuation of its nationals from South Africa. 746 citizens have already registered as President Museveni orders special flights home.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in coordination with several other government bodies, to finalize and implement the evacuation operation, which is expected to begin in the coming days.
According to a press statement issued by the Ministry today, 746 Ugandans have already voluntarily registered for assisted evacuation due to serious safety and security concerns. Many more are expected to register, while numerous others have already left South Africa independently after vigilante groups reportedly issued a deadline of 30 June 2026.
The evacuation plan includes registering affected nationals across South African provinces, transferring them to safe assembly points, issuing emergency travel documents where needed, and coordinating with immigration authorities. In partnership with the Ministry of Works and Transport, the government has arranged for Uganda Airlines to operate special charter flights, which will be fully funded by the Ugandan government.
The statement also noted that other African countries have similarly evacuated their nationals from South Africa in response to the current situation. Uganda continues to engage directly with the South African government to ensure the safety of the remaining Ugandan nationals.
In a somber development, the government confirmed that one Ugandan national was killed in an attack in KwaZulu-Natal Province. Preparations are underway to repatriate the body to Uganda, and the Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs has extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.
Hon. Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo, Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, signed the official statement, which emphasized the government’s commitment to the safety of its citizens abroad.
This marks a significant repatriation effort amid ongoing tensions in South Africa, where foreign nationals have faced repeated waves of xenophobic attacks in recent years.