Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja has urged Ugandans recently repatriated from South Africa to use the skills and experience they acquired abroad to rebuild their lives and contribute to the country’s socio-economic development.
Speaking to the returnees on Friday at the National Leadership Institute (NALI) in Kyankwanzi, where they are undergoing rehabilitation and reintegration, Nabbanja encouraged them to remain hopeful and take advantage of the opportunities available in Uganda.
“I welcome you and ask you to take advantage of the opportunities available in our country. I encourage you to channel the skills and experience gained abroad into productive activities to facilitate your smooth integration into your respective communities,” Nabbanja said.
The Prime Minister thanked President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for directing the repatriation of Ugandans affected by the recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa. She also commended the government institutions that coordinated the exercise.
“I thank H.E. Museveni, who directed their repatriation. I also thank all the government institutions participating in this effort,” she said.
Drawing from her own life experience, Nabbanja encouraged the returnees not to lose hope despite the hardships they have endured.
“I used to make and sell mandazi and chapati for a living. I am living testimony that one can rise from humble beginnings to become the Prime Minister of Uganda. There is no permanent condition in life; every situation is temporary. Give it time, trust in God, work hard, and He will lift you up again,” she said.
She urged the returnees to uphold trust, honesty and integrity in all their endeavours, noting that these values played a key role in the growth of her businesses because many people trusted her enough to extend credit.
Nabbanja also encouraged the returnees to love and invest in Uganda, describing the country as a land of abundant opportunities.
She praised President Museveni for prioritising the welfare of Ugandans living abroad, noting that Uganda was among the first East African countries to repatriate its citizens following the xenophobic attacks in South Africa.
The Prime Minister further revealed that President Museveni is expected to engage the South African authorities in discussions aimed at addressing the recent xenophobic attacks and identifying lasting solutions to prevent similar incidents in the future.
She appealed to the returnees to remain patient, refrain from revenge or bitterness, and allow diplomatic efforts to take their course as the governments of Uganda and South Africa work towards restoring normalcy and safeguarding the welfare of Ugandan nationals living abroad.
