By Spy Uganda
The Government of Uganda has announced plans to evacuate its nationals from South Africa following a surge in anti-migrant violence and xenophobic protests that have heightened security concerns for foreign nationals living in the country.
In a press statement issued on Sunday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the evacuation was directed by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni in response to escalating attacks allegedly carried out by vigilante groups targeting migrants.
According to the ministry, an inter-agency team comprising 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 in South Africa is finalizing an evacuation plan expected to commence within the next few days.
The ministry revealed that 746 Ugandan nationals have so far voluntarily registered for evacuation due to growing fears over their safety, with more registrations expected.
Officials also noted that several Ugandans have already left South Africa independently following reports that vigilante groups had issued a June 30, 2026 deadline for foreign nationals to leave.
The government added that a number of African countries have also begun evacuating their citizens from South Africa under the prevailing security situation.
As part of the evacuation exercise, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said affected Ugandans will first be registered across various South African provinces before being transferred to designated assembly centres.
Emergency travel documents will be issued where necessary, while Ugandan authorities will work closely with South African immigration officials to facilitate a smooth departure process.
The government further disclosed that, in collaboration with the Ministry of Works and Transport, Uganda Airlines is making arrangements to operate special charter flights dedicated to the evacuation mission.
The chartered flights will be fully funded by the Government of Uganda.
Even as evacuation plans advance, Uganda says it remains in active diplomatic engagement with the South African government to ensure the continued safety and protection of Ugandan nationals who choose to remain in the country.
The Ministry emphasized that discussions between the two governments are ongoing as authorities monitor developments on the ground.
In a tragic development, the government confirmed that one Ugandan national lost his life following an attack in KwaZulu-Natal Province.
The Ministry extended condolences to the bereaved family and announced that preparations are underway to repatriate the deceased’s body to Uganda.
Authorities have urged Ugandans in South Africa to remain in close contact with the Uganda High Commission and follow official communication channels for updates regarding the evacuation exercise.
