Kampala: Uganda has announced its intention to evacuate 746 of its nationals from South Africa following a surge in xenophobic violence. The operation is set to commence in the coming days.
According to Nam News Network, Haruna Kasolo, Uganda's acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, informed reporters that the Ugandan nationals had registered for repatriation. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is collaborating with various government agencies, the Ugandan community in South Africa, and the Uganda High Commission in Pretoria to finalize the evacuation strategy.
The Ugandan government will manage the registration of returnees, facilitate their transfer to secure assembly points, issue emergency travel documents as needed, and oversee their departure from South Africa. Uganda Airlines, the national carrier, will provide special charter flights for the evacuation, with expenses covered by the government.
Kasolo encouraged Ugandans wishing to return to register promptly with the Uganda High Commission in Pretoria. He noted that some Ugandans had independently left South Africa following a June 30 deadline reportedly set by vigilante groups.
He also confirmed the death of a Ugandan in an anti-migrant attack in KwaZulu-Natal Province and stated that arrangements were being made to repatriate the body. The Ugandan government is in ongoing discussions with South African authorities to ensure the safety of Ugandans still residing in the country.