The Government of Uganda has announced plans to evacuate hundreds of Ugandan nationals from South Africa following a surge in anti-migrant violence and xenophobic protests targeting foreign nationals.
Speaking during a national address at the Uganda Media Centre on Sunday, the Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo, said President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni had directed the immediate preparation of an evacuation exercise to ensure the safety of Ugandans affected by the unrest.
Kasolo said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the Office of the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Ministry of Works and Transport, the Uganda High Commission in South Africa, and leaders of the Ugandan community, is finalizing an evacuation plan expected to begin within the next few days.
According to the minister, 746 Ugandans have so far voluntarily registered for evacuation due to growing security concerns, with more expected to sign up.
He added that a number of Ugandan’s had already returned home independently following a reported 30 June 2026 ultimatum issued by vigilante groups targeting migrants.
“The evacuation plan will involve the registration of affected Ugandans across various provinces, their transfer to designated safe assembly centres, issuance of emergency travel documents where necessary, and coordination with immigration authorities to facilitate their departure from South Africa,” Kasolo said.
The government has also partnered with the Ministry of Works and Transport to arrange Uganda Airlines special charter flights that will transport the evacuees back home at government expense.
Kasolo noted that Uganda remains in close diplomatic engagement with the South African government to safeguard the security and welfare of Ugandan nationals who choose to remain in the country.
The minister also confirmed the death of one Ugandan who was killed during an attack in KwaZulu-Natal Province, describing the incident as tragic.
“The Government extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved family. Preparations are underway to repatriate the deceased’s body to Uganda,” he said.
Uganda joins several other African countries that have already initiated evacuation efforts for their citizens as xenophobic attacks continue to raise concerns across South Africa.
