news 29 March 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Over 20,000 Illegal Ugandan Stay in South Africa Delays Visa-Free Travel Deal
More than 20,000 Ugandans residing illegally in South Africa are complicating negotiations for visa-free entry with ordinary passports. Immigration officials note challenges in tracking those who entered via land routes through neighboring countries. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/illegal-stay-of-20-000-ugandans-in-south-africa-slows-visa-free-deal-5406886
Over 20,000 Ugandans living illegally in South Africa are hindering progress on a visa-free travel agreement for ordinary passport holders, according to Uganda’s Directorate of Immigration.
Immigration spokesperson Simon Mundeyi explained that these individuals, who often enter via land routes through Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe without visas, make it difficult to monitor movements and finalize the deal. “The main issue is the large number of Ugandans there illegally—over 20,000,” he stated.
Despite this, diplomatic (red) and official (green) passport holders already enjoy visa exemptions for South Africa, along with destinations like the UAE and Cyprus.
Permanent Secretary Vincent Bagire at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that talks are advancing but hurdles remain, with the Ministry of Internal Affairs tasked with tracking citizens abroad.
In regional news, Ugandans can travel to Kenya and Rwanda using national ID cards under a tripartite agreement, simplifying East African Community movement. However, work permits are still required for employment, even if fee-free.
Source: Daily Monitor