Government Reaffirms Shs 2 Billion Pledge for South Africa Returnees

The Ugandan government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to disburse Shs 2 billion to citizens who were forced to return home following xenophobic violence in South Africa earlier this year. The financial injection aims to serve as a crucial buffer for individuals who lost their entire livelihoods abroad.

Speaking to the returnees, Ministry of Foreign Affairs official Dickson Ogwang Okul encouraged beneficiaries to utilize the funds responsibly. His remarks came during a financial literacy graduation ceremony organized by Enterprise Uganda in partnership with Equity Bank Uganda. The two-day program equipped participants with essential entrepreneurship and financial management skills.

Addressing ongoing repatriation efforts, Ogwang revealed that the government is utilizing empty seats on Uganda Airlines flights to bring back the remaining 700 Ugandans still stranded in South Africa.

Despite the government’s support, returnee chairman Mathias Baguma noted that most citizens are struggling to restart their lives because they were unable to bring back any of their properties or receive compensation.

Charles Ocici, director general of Enterprise Uganda, explained that the returnees face unique hurdles because they lack local collateral, business track records, or land securities needed to easily access formal credit. Consequently, programs like those provided by Enterprise Uganda are vital for helping them rebuild confidence and apply foreign business experience locally.

Bob Paul Lusembo of Equity Bank added that the institution remains dedicated to offering affordable loans to support the returnees’ economic reintegration.

Read more details in the original report.