Uganda Brings Home 424 Nationals Fleeing South Africa Violence

Safe Return After Escalating Threats

Uganda has successfully evacuated 424 of its nationals from South Africa following weeks of intense anti-migrant violence and xenophobic protests. The repatriation effort, coordinated by the Ugandan government, saw three batches of returnees arrive at Entebbe International Airport, with the first group of 273 people touching down aboard an Ethiopian Airlines flight.

Acting Foreign Affairs Minister Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo confirmed that President Museveni immediately mobilised resources after reports emerged of escalating insecurity threatening foreign nationals in South Africa. "The brotherly responsibility of any sovereign government is the safety and security of its citizens, both within our borders and abroad," Kasolo stated during the reception ceremony.

The evacuation comes at a heavy human cost, with three Ugandans having lost their lives during the unrest. Kasolo revealed that bodies of two additional victims remain unidentified and are awaiting repatriation. More than 700 Ugandans have already registered voluntarily for evacuation, indicating the scale of the crisis.

Many returnees arrived with minimal belongings after abandoning homes, businesses and assets accumulated over years of residence in South Africa. Ambassador Paul Omoru Omiat acknowledged the difficult circumstances, noting that "most Ugandans returned with nothing, some without even a suitcase, because the situation was not friendly."

Government officials have urged returnees to embrace opportunities within Uganda's expanding economy and access available wealth creation programmes. The United Returnees Organisation has pledged to support reintegration efforts through savings cooperatives and agricultural livelihood initiatives, whilst appealing for continued government assistance.