Uganda Begins Evacuation of Citizens as Xenophobic Violence Escalates in South Africa

Uganda has launched the evacuation of its citizens from South Africa following a rise in xenophobic attacks and anti-migrant protests, with 273 nationals returning home on Friday in the first phase of a government-led repatriation exercise.

The returnees arrived at Entebbe International Airport aboard a chartered flight from O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, marking the beginning of efforts by Ugandan authorities to bring affected citizens to safety.

The evacuation was ordered by President Yoweri Museveni amid growing concerns over the security and welfare of Ugandans living in South Africa, where reports of violence targeting foreign nationals have sparked alarm.

According to Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the repatriation was prompted by escalating anti-migrant sentiments and xenophobic incidents that have threatened the safety of Ugandan residents in the country.

In a statement issued by the Uganda Media Centre, Uganda’s Ambassador to South Africa, Paul Amoru, said the government was coordinating additional flights to assist more citizens wishing to return home.

Amoru disclosed that a second chartered flight carrying 35 evacuees was scheduled to depart Johannesburg on Friday morning, while a third flight transporting 114 Ugandan nationals was expected to leave later in the afternoon.

The ambassador noted that the evacuation exercise remains ongoing as authorities continue to monitor developments and provide support to Ugandans affected by the unrest.

The latest repatriation effort highlights Uganda’s determination to protect its citizens abroad as concerns grow over renewed outbreaks of xenophobic violence in South Africa. Government officials have indicated that further evacuations could be arranged if the situation deteriorates or if more citizens request assistance.