Uganda Launches Emergency Evacuation of Citizens from South Africa Amid Rising Xenophobic Violence

KAMPALA, June 28, 2026 — The Government of Uganda has announced an emergency evacuation plan for its citizens living in South Africa following a surge in xenophobic violence and anti-migrant protests that have left hundreds of Ugandans fearing for their safety.

The announcement was made through a press statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs after President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni directed that immediate arrangements be undertaken to facilitate the safe return of Ugandan nationals affected by the worsening security situation.

According to the Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo, the evacuation exercise is being coordinated jointly by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, 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.

The coordinated response comes amid growing reports of violent attacks targeting foreign nationals by vigilante groups, prompting concerns over the safety and wellbeing of thousands of migrants residing in South Africa.

Hundreds Register for Government Assistance

Government officials revealed that 746 Ugandans have already voluntarily registered for evacuation after expressing concerns over their personal safety.

Authorities anticipate that the number will continue to rise as more Ugandans seek assistance from the government.

The Ministry also disclosed that a number of Ugandan nationals have already departed South Africa on their own following reports that vigilante groups had issued a deadline of 30 June 2026 for foreigners to leave certain areas.

Officials noted that Uganda joins several other African countries that have already evacuated their citizens from South Africa under the prevailing security circumstances.

Comprehensive Evacuation Plan

The evacuation exercise will involve several carefully coordinated stages designed to ensure the safe return of all registered Ugandan nationals.

The government plans to register affected Ugandans across various provinces of South Africa before transporting them to designated safe assembly centres. Emergency travel documents will be issued to those requiring them, while immigration authorities in both Uganda and South Africa will work together to facilitate the smooth departure of evacuees.

Officials say every effort is being made to ensure that the evacuation is conducted in an orderly, safe and humane manner.

Uganda Airlines to Operate Special Charter Flights

To facilitate the operation, the Government of Uganda has tasked Uganda Airlines with operating special charter flights dedicated to the evacuation mission.

The Ministry confirmed that the charter operations will be fully financed by the Government of Uganda, ensuring that vulnerable Ugandan nationals can return home without bearing the financial burden of emergency travel.

The arrangement underscores government's commitment to protecting its citizens abroad during times of crisis.

Diplomatic Engagement with South Africa Continues

While evacuation preparations are underway, Uganda continues to engage diplomatically with the Government of the Republic of South Africa.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said discussions remain focused on ensuring the safety, security and protection of Ugandan nationals who may choose to remain in South Africa after the evacuation exercise.

The government emphasized that bilateral cooperation remains essential in addressing the challenges posed by xenophobic violence while safeguarding the rights of foreign nationals living and working in South Africa.

Government Mourns Ugandan Killed in Attack

In a tragic development, the Government confirmed that one Ugandan national lost his life following an attack in South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal Province.

The Ministry extended its deepest condolences to the bereaved family and announced that preparations are already underway to repatriate the deceased's body back to Uganda for burial.

The death highlights the human cost of the ongoing violence and reinforces the urgency of the government's evacuation efforts.

Growing Concern Over Xenophobic Attacks

South Africa has periodically experienced outbreaks of xenophobic violence over the past two decades, with foreign nationals often becoming targets during periods of economic hardship, unemployment and social tensions.

Migrants from various African countries—including Uganda—have contributed significantly to South Africa's economy through trade, entrepreneurship, professional services and skilled labour. However, recurring waves of anti-immigrant sentiment have continued to threaten their safety and livelihoods.

The latest escalation has prompted several African governments to reassess the security of their nationals and initiate emergency evacuation plans.

Government Reassures Ugandans Abroad

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has urged Ugandans still residing in South Africa to remain in close contact with the Uganda High Commission and community leaders while following official communication regarding the evacuation process.

Authorities also appealed to those requiring assistance to register promptly to enable proper planning and coordination. 

The emergency evacuation represents one of Uganda's most significant consular operations in recent years and demonstrates the government's commitment to protecting its citizens wherever they may be.

As preparations move into their final stages, hundreds of Ugandans are expected to return home aboard government-funded charter flights in the coming days, bringing relief to families who have anxiously followed reports of escalating violence in South Africa.