Uganda announces evacuation of nationals from South Africa over safety fears

The Government of Uganda has announced plans to evacuate its citizens from South Africa after President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni directed the necessary arrangements.

The decision follows months of rising anti-migrant violence and protests by vigilante groups, which have issued a June 30 deadline for foreign nationals to leave.

Read more: Tensions rise in Alexandra as anti-Illegal immigration protests intensify

As of June 28, 746 Ugandans have voluntarily registered for evacuation due to security concerns, with more expected to come forward. Many others have already departed South Africa ahead of the deadline.

The ministry of foreign affairs, working 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 the Ugandan community leadership, is finalising an evacuation plan.

The process will involve registering affected Ugandans across provinces, transferring them to safe assembly centres, issuing emergency travel documents where needed, and co-ordinating with South African immigration authorities.

Uganda Airlines will operate special charter flights for the exercise, which will be funded by the government of Uganda.

Also read: Anti-Illegal immigration groups close foreign-owned businesses in Alexandra

The Ugandan government continues to engage South African authorities to ensure the safety of its nationals still in the country, expressing regret over the death of one Ugandan in an attack in KwaZulu-Natal, and extending condolences to the family.

Preparations are underway to repatriate the body.

Other African governments have also evacuated their nationals from South Africa under similar circumstances.

Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates!