Archival Sense
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- Dec 16, 2025
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The Government of Uganda has announced plans to evacuate its nationals from South Africa following an escalation in anti-immigrant violence and xenophobic attacks that have left hundreds seeking assistance to return home.
In a press statement issued on June 28, 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni had directed that immediate arrangements be made to evacuate Ugandans amid growing security concerns.The ministry said it is working closely 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 there to finalize an evacuation plan expected to begin within the next few days.
According to the ministry, 746 Ugandans have so far voluntarily registered for evacuation due to safety concerns, with officials expecting the number to rise. It added that some Ugandans have already left South Africa on their own following reports of a June 30 deadline allegedly issued by vigilante groups targeting foreign nationals.
The ministry also confirmed that one Ugandan national, a one Niwamanya Wilberforce, also known as Joseph, was killed during an attack in KwaZulu-Natal Province. Government officials said preparations are underway to repatriate the deceased's body to Uganda while extending condolences to the bereaved family.
The government noted that several other African countries have also begun evacuating their citizens from South Africa in response to the deteriorating security situation.
Officials said the evacuation exercise will involve registering affected Ugandans across different provinces, transporting them to designated assembly centres, issuing emergency travel documents where necessary, and coordinating with South African immigration authorities to facilitate their departure.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs further revealed that, in collaboration with the Ministry of Works and Transport, Uganda Airlines will operate special charter flights to repatriate the affected citizens. The evacuation flights will be fully funded by the Government of Uganda.
Even as preparations continue, the Ugandan government said it remains in contact with South African authorities to ensure the safety and protection of Ugandan nationals who remain in the country.
The statement was signed by the Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo, who also held a press conference in the same regard.
Video courtesy of UBC
