By Karim Were
The Ugandan government is set to begin the emergency evacuation of hundreds of its citizens from South Africa after growing security concerns prompted many to request assistance to return home.
Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo said 746 Ugandans have so far voluntarily registered for evacuation, with authorities expecting the number to increase as more citizens come forward.
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The operation follows a directive from President Yoweri Museveni, who instructed relevant government agencies to facilitate the safe return of Ugandans affected by the worsening security situation in South Africa.
According to Kasolo, reports of escalating anti-migrant tensions and threats targeting foreign nationals have forced some Ugandans to leave the country independently, while others are awaiting government assistance.
The evacuation is being coordinated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in partnership 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 leaders of the Ugandan community.
Officials said registered Ugandans will be collected from various provinces and transported to designated assembly centres before boarding special charter flights. Emergency travel documents will be issued to those without valid passports, while South African immigration authorities are working with Uganda to facilitate departures.
Uganda Airlines has been placed on standby to operate the chartered evacuation flights, with all transportation costs to be covered by the Government of Uganda.
Kasolo also confirmed that the government is engaging South African authorities to ensure the safety of Ugandans who choose to remain in the country during the ongoing tensions.
Meanwhile, the government confirmed that one Ugandan lost their life in an attack in KwaZulu-Natal Province. Arrangements are underway to repatriate the deceased’s body, with Kasolo extending condolences to the bereaved family.
Uganda joins several African nations that have announced plans to evacuate their citizens from South Africa as concerns over the safety of foreign nationals continue to mount.
