Government has contributed Shs10 million to each of the three families of Ugandans who were killed during the recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, as part of efforts to support the bereaved and assist citizens affected by the violence.
The condolence contribution was handed over on Wednesday by Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs Haruna Kasolo Kyeyune on behalf of President Museveni during a meeting with the bereaved families in Kampala.
The beneficiaries are the families of the late Edrine Kirumira, Joseph Ainebyona and Ronald Nasima, who lost their lives during attacks targeting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa.
Speaking during the handover, Kasolo conveyed the President’s condolences and described the financial support as a gesture of compassion and solidarity.
“On behalf of President Museveni, I handed over a condolence contribution of Shs10 million to each of the three bereaved families as a gesture of compassion and solidarity during this profoundly difficult time,” Kasolo said.
He noted that while no amount of financial assistance could replace the lives lost, the government hoped the support would offer comfort to the grieving families.
“While no amount of support can fill the void left by the loss of their loved ones, I pray that this gesture offers comfort and reminds the families that they are not alone. May the Almighty grant the departed eternal rest and give their families strength, peace and courage in the days ahead,” he added.
Kasolo said the government had also facilitated the repatriation of the victims’ bodies, enabling their families to accord them dignified burials in Uganda.
The deaths occurred amid a wave of xenophobic violence and growing hostility towards foreign nationals in parts of South Africa, prompting the Ugandan government to organise the voluntary evacuation of citizens wishing to return home.
Kasolo said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, working with other government agencies, continues to coordinate the repatriation of Ugandans from South Africa. Hundreds of citizens have already returned to Uganda on special flights following heightened security concerns.
He added that returnees would be linked to government livelihood programmes, including the Parish Development Model (PDM), to support their reintegration and help them rebuild their lives.
The bereaved families thanked President Museveni and the government for repatriating the bodies of their loved ones, providing financial assistance and maintaining regular communication with them throughout the process.
Meanwhile, Johnny Muhindo said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs remains in close contact with Ugandan communities abroad as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the protection, welfare and safety of citizens living and working outside the country.
