The Government of Uganda, through its Embassy in Tehran, has successfully coordinated the safe evacuation of 42 Ugandan nationals and two diplomatic staff from the Islamic Republic of Iran to the Republic of Turkey.
This follows the outbreak of hostilities between Iran and the State of Israel on 13th June 2025, which significantly disrupted regional security and posed serious risks to foreign nationals.
The evacuation was spearheaded by the Ugandan Embassy in Tehran, working under the direction of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Kampala, and with essential logistical support from the Ugandan Embassy in Ankara, Turkey.
An Emergency Evacuation Coordination Centre was promptly set up in Turkey to oversee the registration, coordination, and safe relocation of Ugandan citizens.
In a strong display of diplomatic cooperation, the Republic of Turkey granted Uganda’s request to issue visas on arrival to the evacuees, enabling their swift and temporary entry into Turkish territory as part of the evacuation plan.
Ground transportation was arranged from Tehran to Turkey, and the first group of evacuees was successfully received at the Bargarzan border on Wednesday, 18th June 2025.
The 42 Ugandan students and two embassy staff are currently en route to Istanbul, where they will board a chartered commercial flight back to Uganda.
The Emergency Evacuation Coordination Centre is being led by Amb. Matata Twaha, Chargé d’Affaires a.i., with support from Oscar J. Edule (Minister Counsellor) and Agaba Mark (Financial Attaché). The centre will remain operational until all Ugandans in Iran are safely located and repatriated.
On the ground, diplomatic officials including Julius Malinga (Second Secretary) and Zainah Nabirye from the Uganda Embassy in Tehran, alongside Mubarak Daka from the Ankara Embassy, played key roles in receiving and assisting evacuees at the border.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reassured the public that efforts are ongoing to identify, contact and assist any remaining Ugandans in Iran.
Coordination teams remain in active communication with registered individuals to facilitate their safe return home.
