Repatriated Ugandans find new hope in Kyankwanzi as Government Plans to extend Economic Support.

At least 1,030 Ugandans repatriated from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks are undergoing what government officials describe as a remarkable transformation at the National Leadership Institute (NALI), Kyankwanzi, where they are rediscovering hope, patriotism and confidence to rebuild their lives back home.

The Commissioner for the National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps (NSPC) at State House, Hellen Seku, said the rehabilitation and ideological orientation programme has exceeded expectations, with many participants now viewing Uganda as the best place to invest their skills and secure their future.

According to Seku, the group comprises 438 men, 261 women and 331 children aged between zero and 16 years. They were repatriated after abandoning businesses, jobs and homes following a wave of xenophobic violence in South Africa.

Speaking during one of the training sessions at Kyankwanzi, Seku revealed that the programme has attracted interest from hundreds of other Ugandans who returned independently from South Africa and now wish to benefit from the same ideological training.

"I have received countless calls from Ugandans who returned on their own and now want to join this programme because they are seeing the positive transformation of their colleagues on social media," Seku said.

She added that many callers have requested to be included in future training cohorts after watching videos and testimonies shared by participants currently undergoing the programme.

Now in its second week, the programme focuses on patriotism, national identity, economic empowerment and leadership.

Seku said many participants arrived feeling hopeless, traumatised and uncertain about their future after losing livelihoods they had built over several years in South Africa. However, she noted that the intensive orientation has significantly changed their outlook.

"The way they came is not the way they are today. They now appreciate their country. Many have realised they were ignorant about Uganda's opportunities, wealth and economic potential. They now believe Uganda is the best country to live in."

She described President Yoweri Museveni's decision to facilitate the repatriation as an expression of compassion and national responsibility.

"We thank His Excellency for his fatherly heart and for giving these Ugandans another opportunity to rebuild their lives."

Seku also praised Mulago National Referral Hospital and other government health facilities for supporting returnees requiring specialised medical attention. She disclosed that some arrived in poor health, while others suffered severe psychological distress and were unable to remember even their home districts.
Source: Nile Post.