The Ugandan government has announced plans to evacuate hundreds of its citizens from South Africa following a surge in anti-migrant violence and xenophobic protests that have raised serious security concerns.

In an X statement by the government of Uganda on Sunday, June 28, 2026, Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo said President Yoweri Museveni had directed the government to organize the evacuation of Ugandan nationals affected by the escalating unrest.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, working in close coordination with the Office of the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Ministry of Works and Transport, the Uganda High Commission in South Africa, and the leadership of the Ugandan community in South Africa, is finalizing an evacuation plan that is expected to commence in the next few days,” the statement read.

Ugandans in SA

According to the ministry, 746 Ugandans have voluntarily registered for evacuation after expressing fears over their safety, with authorities expecting more people to sign up.

The government also noted that many Ugandans had already left South Africa on their own following a reported June 30, 2026 deadline issued by vigilante groups targeting foreign nationals.

The evacuation exercise will involve registering affected Ugandans across South Africa’s provinces, transferring them to safe assembly centres, issuing emergency travel documents where necessary, and coordinating with immigration authorities to facilitate their departure.

“Currently, 746 (seven hundred and forty-six) Ugandans have voluntarily registered and sought assistance for evacuation due to security and safety concerns, and more are expected to register.”

“Additionally, many Ugandans have already left South Africa on their own following the 30 June 2026 deadline reportedly issued by the vigilante groups.”

Special charter flights

Uganda Airlines will operate special charter flights for the evacuation, with the entire exercise being funded by the Ugandan government.

“In collaboration with the Ministry of Works and Transport, arrangements are being made for Uganda Airlines to provide special charter flights for the evacuation exercise. These flights will be funded by the Government of Uganda,” the statement said.

One Ugandan already dead

Uganda added that it continues to engage the South African government to ensure the safety and security of Ugandan nationals who remain in the country.

The government also confirmed that one Ugandan national was killed during an attack in KwaZulu-Natal Province.

“On a sad note, the Government regrets to report that one Ugandan lost his life following an attack in KwaZulu-Natal Province. We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved family. Preparations are underway to repatriate the body to Uganda,” the statement said.