The Government of Uganda has announced plans to evacuate hundreds of its citizens from South Africa following escalating anti-migrant violence and xenophobic attacks that have left many fearing for their safety.
The announcement was made by the Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo, on Sunday while addressing journalists at the Uganda Media Centre.
Kasolo said President Yoweri Museveni had directed the government to immediately organize the evacuation of Ugandan nationals affected by the unrest.
“His Excellency the President has directed that arrangements be made for the evacuation of Ugandan nationals from South Africa following the escalating anti-migrant violence and xenophobic protests by vigilante groups over the past few months,” Kasolo said.
He revealed that 746 Ugandans have so far voluntarily registered for evacuation, citing growing security concerns, with more expected to sign up in the coming days.
Kasolo added that many other Ugandans had already left South Africa on their own following a reported June 30, 2026, deadline issued by vigilante groups demanding that foreign nationals leave the country.
He said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 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 commence within the next few days.
According to the minister, the exercise will involve registering affected Ugandans across South Africa’s provinces, transporting them to designated safe assembly centres, issuing emergency travel documents where necessary, and coordinating with immigration authorities to facilitate their departure.
Kasolo said the government, through the Ministry of Works and Transport, has arranged for Uganda Airlines to operate special charter flights to bring the evacuees home, with the entire operation fully funded by the Government of Uganda.
Meanwhile, he said Uganda continues to engage the South African government to ensure the safety and security of Ugandans who remain in the country.
On a sombre note, Kasolo confirmed that one Ugandan was killed during the recent violence in KwaZulu-Natal Province.
“We regret to report that one Ugandan lost his life following an attack in KwaZulu-Natal Province. We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved family, and preparations are underway to repatriate the body to Uganda,” he said.
Kasolo also noted that Uganda is not alone in taking such action, saying several other African countries have already evacuated their nationals from South Africa as xenophobic violence continues to escalate.
The development comes on the backdrop of the June 30 deadline set by the organisers of widespread protests.
The organisers announced nationwide anti- immigrant protests on Tuesday,June 30, which many fear will descend into violence.
Many foreigners are currently leaving South Africa before the deadline.
