world 28 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda to Evacuate Over 700 Nationals from South Africa Amidst Xenophobic Violence
The Ugandan government has ordered the evacuation of over 700 of its citizens from South Africa following a surge in xenophobic attacks that has resulted in the death of one Ugandan national and widespread fear among the diaspora community. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/one-ugandan-dead-over-700-cry-out-for-rescue-as-govt-orders-south-africa-evacuation-5512348
The Ugandan government has initiated emergency evacuation plans for its nationals in South Africa, responding to a severe uptick in anti-immigrant sentiment and violence. This action comes after one Ugandan, identified as Wilber Niwamanya, also known as Joseph Ainebyona, was killed in an attack in KwaZulu-Natal province.
President Yoweri Museveni has directed that arrangements be made immediately to bring home Ugandans who feel threatened by the escalating security situation. A total of 746 Ugandans have voluntarily registered for assistance with evacuation, with more expected to come forward. The urgency is heightened by a June 30 deadline set by local vigilante groups, demanding that all foreign nationals leave the country.
A multi-agency operation, involving the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Office of the Prime Minister, and the Uganda High Commission in Pretoria, is coordinating the rescue. Uganda Airlines has been chartered for special, government-funded flights to repatriate citizens. The deceased, Niwamanya, a motorcycle delivery service operator, was reportedly attacked by a mob, robbed of his motorcycle, and later succumbed to his injuries. The Ugandan mission is working with South African authorities to investigate the incident and repatriate his body.
This situation echoes past waves of xenophobic violence in South Africa, including the deadly attacks in 2008 that claimed over 60 lives. Despite condemnation from South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, local groups continue to protest, citing job scarcity and increased crime attributed to foreign nationals. South African authorities have increased security in response to the growing tensions and the looming deadline.
Uganda joins several other African nations, including Malawi, Nigeria, Ghana, Zambia, and Mozambique, which have launched similar repatriation efforts to ensure their citizens’ safety amidst the unrest. International humanitarian agencies have also expressed concern for refugees and asylum seekers trapped in the volatile situation.