By SUNTV Global Channel
June 28, 2026
The Ugandan government has announced plans to evacuate 746 of its citizens from South Africa following a surge in xenophobic violence and anti-immigrant protests targeting foreign nationals.
In a statement released on Sunday, Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo said President Yoweri Museveni had directed the immediate evacuation of Ugandans amid growing security concerns.
According to the government, 746 Ugandans have voluntarily registered for evacuation, with officials expecting more citizens to join the exercise in the coming days.
The evacuation operation will be coordinated by Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs alongside 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.
Authorities said the evacuation process will include the registration of affected citizens, transportation to designated assembly centres, issuance of emergency travel documents where necessary, and coordination with South African immigration officials to ensure a safe departure.
The government also confirmed that Uganda Airlines will operate special charter flights to bring the evacuees home, with all costs covered by the Ugandan government.
Despite the evacuation plans, Kampala said it remains in talks with the South African government to ensure the safety and protection of Ugandans who choose to remain in the country.
Officials also confirmed that one Ugandan citizen was killed during an attack in KwaZulu-Natal Province, adding that arrangements are underway to return the victim’s body to Uganda.
The move comes ahead of a reported June 30 deadline allegedly issued by anti-immigrant vigilante groups, raising fears of further attacks against undocumented foreign nationals.
Ugandan authorities said they will continue monitoring the situation while urging citizens in South Africa to remain vigilant and cooperate with officials throughout the evacuation process.
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