KAMPALA, Uganda – President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has directed the immediate evacuation of Ugandan nationals from South Africa following months of escalating anti-migrant violence and xenophobic protests targeting foreign nationals.
In a press statement issued on Sunday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it is working with the Office of the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Ministry of Works and Transport, the Uganda High Commission in Pretoria, and leaders of the Ugandan community in South Africa to finalize an evacuation plan expected to begin within the next few days.
According to the Ministry, 746 Ugandans have so far voluntarily registered for evacuation due to growing security concerns, with more expected to sign up. Authorities also noted that some Ugandans have already left South Africa independently following a reported 30 June 2026 deadline issued by vigilante groups.
The statement was signed by Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo.
The government said the evacuation exercise will involve registering affected Ugandans across South Africa’s provinces, transferring them to designated assembly centres, issuing emergency travel documents where necessary, and coordinating with South African immigration authorities to facilitate their departure.
Uganda Airlines is expected to operate special charter flights for the evacuation in collaboration with the Ministry of Works and Transport, with all costs to be covered by the Government of Uganda.
The Ministry noted that several other African countries have also evacuated their citizens from South Africa under the prevailing security situation.
Despite the evacuation plans, Uganda said it remains engaged with the South African government to ensure the continued safety and security of Ugandan nationals who choose to remain in the country.
The statement also confirmed the death of one Ugandan during an attack in KwaZulu-Natal Province. The government extended condolences to the bereaved family and said preparations are underway to repatriate the deceased’s body to Uganda.
