Uganda has so far repatriated 880 of its nationals from South Africa following rising pressure from vigilante groups that had issued an illegal deadline demanding undocumented foreign nationals to leave the country by June 30.
The update was presented by the Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo, who said the repatriation exercise is being handled in phases as government continues to facilitate the safe return of affected Ugandans.
According to Kasolo, as of Tuesday, July 7, 2026, a total of 880 Ugandans had been brought back home. He said the next phase of the emergency airlift includes an additional flight expected to land today at 6:00pm with another 250 evacuees.
The Minister said the returnees are being taken to Kyankwanzi, which government has designated as a holding centre as the repatriation exercise continues in batches.
Kasolo explained that the first group of returnees requested to meet President Yoweri Museveni, a request the President accepted. He said government agreed to use one central holding ground to manage the process more effectively.
He added that many of the returnees are traumatised and require support after their experiences in South Africa, noting that engagement and counselling are part of the recovery process.
“Many of them are traumatised and need support. Talking to them is part of the recovery process,” Kasolo said.
The Minister also revealed that some Ugandans who returned from South Africa on their own are now requesting to be included on the Kyankwanzi list.
Government says the repatriation operation remains part of its commitment to protecting Ugandans abroad and ensuring that citizens affected by insecurity, threats, or forced displacement are assisted to return home safely.
