Entebbe – The Government of Uganda has successfully received 166 more Ugandan nationals who voluntarily returned home from Durban, KwaZulu-Natal in the Republic of South Africa, aboard the fourth evacuation flight under the ongoing repatriation exercise.
With this latest arrival, the total number of Ugandan nationals safely repatriated from South Africa now stands at 730, according to ambassador Dickson ogwang
The previous arrivals were 266 returnees on the first flight, 32 on the second flight, and 266 on the third flight.
The returnees landed at Entebbe International Airport where they were received by Government officials led by Ambassador Dickson Ogwang, who welcomed them on behalf of the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs.
In his remarks, Amb. Ogwang reaffirmed Government’s commitment to the welfare of Ugandan citizens wherever they may be.
“You remain valued and integral members of the Ugandan family,” he told the returnees. “As you begin rebuilding your lives, we encourage you to remain hopeful and resilient. Government is here to support you.”
The voluntary evacuation exercise was initiated following a directive from H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. The President tasked Rt. Hon. Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja to coordinate a whole-of-government response through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The decision was made in light of escalating violence targeting Ugandan nationals and other migrants in parts of South Africa. The ambassador cited incidents in Durban, Cape Town and Johannesburg, including the tragic loss of three Ugandan nationals and reported physical attacks in the Western Cape and other provinces.
“The aim, is to ensure that Ugandans who feel unsafe can return home in a safe, orderly and dignified manner.” Said the ambassador
The Uganda High Commission in Pretoria, under the leadership of H.E. Ambassador Paul Amoru, continues to lead the exercise in close coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Uganda People’s Defence Forces, Uganda Airlines, relevant South African authorities, and Ugandan community leaders.
This collaboration, the statement noted, reflects the warm and excellent bilateral relations between the Republic of Uganda and the Republic of South Africa, and a shared commitment to ensure the protection and welfare of all persons within the host territory.
Community leaders have played a key role in mobilizing registered nationals and providing information on the evacuation process.
The High Commission confirmed that additional evacuation flights remain scheduled as Government continues its efforts to assist all registered Ugandan nationals wishing to return home.
Officials said the Mission remains available to provide guidance and assistance to nationals in South Africa through established channels and community leadership structures
In the meantime, all Ugandan nationals still residing in South Africa have been urged to remain law-abiding, vigilant, and to continue taking all necessary safety and precautionary measures as previously advised by the Mission.
“The High Commission will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide further guidance as may be necessary.
With 730 citizens now home, the repatriation programme underscores Government’s priority to protect Ugandans abroad. For many returnees, the flight marks the start of a new chapter, with support from Government agencies expected to help them reintegrate and rebuild.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reiterated that no Ugandan who wishes to return will be left behind.
