The Government of the Republic of Uganda has announced urgent plans to evacuate its citizens from South Africa following reports of rising anti-migrant violence and xenophobic attacks linked to vigilante groups.
The announcement was made through a press statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 28th June 2026 in Kampala. According to the statement, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni directed government agencies to immediately organize the safe return of Ugandan nationals who feel threatened or are at risk.
The evacuation plan is being coordinated by several government institutions, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Office of the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Ministry of Works and Transport, and the Uganda High Commission in South Africa. Community leaders of Ugandans living in South Africa are also involved in the process to ensure proper identification and safe movement of affected citizens.
According to the statement, 746 Ugandans have already voluntarily registered for evacuation after expressing concern over their safety. Authorities also noted that more people are expected to join the list as insecurity continues in some regions. Many other Ugandans are reported to have already left South Africa independently following a reported deadline issued by vigilante groups.
The government said the evacuation process will involve registering affected individuals across different provinces, moving them to safe assembly centres, and issuing emergency travel documents where necessary. Officials will then coordinate with South African immigration authorities to facilitate their safe departure.
To support the operation, the government is working with the Ministry of Works and Transport to arrange special charter flights through Uganda Airlines. The flights will be fully funded by the Government of Uganda to ensure all registered citizens are brought home safely.
The statement also confirmed that Uganda is not alone in this effort, noting that several other African countries have already evacuated their nationals from South Africa due to similar security concerns.
Sadly, the government also reported a tragic incident in which one Ugandan citizen lost his life following an attack in KwaZulu-Natal Province. Officials extended condolences to the bereaved family and confirmed that arrangements are underway to repatriate the body back to Uganda for burial.
The statement was signed by Hon. Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo, the Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs. He emphasized that the government remains committed to protecting Ugandans abroad and ensuring their safe return during emergencies.
As the situation develops, the government continues diplomatic engagements with the South African authorities to improve the safety of Ugandan nationals still living there and to ensure the evacuation process runs smoothly.
