Umukuka appeals to Museveni over safety of Bamasaba in South Africa amid Xenophobia fears

MBALE, Uganda: The Umukuka III of Bugisu, His Highness Jude Mike Mudoma, has appealed to President Museveni, expressing deep concern over the safety and welfare of Bamasaba and other Ugandans living in South Africa amid reports of renewed xenophobic tensions targeting foreign nationals.

According to the spokesperson of the Bugisu Cultural Institution, Mr Steven Masiga, the Bugisu cultural leader is “having sleepless nights” following reports indicating that migrant communities in South Africa are facing increasing hostility and uncertainty.

Masiga said information from international media outlets, including the BBC and Al Jazeera, as well as sources within South Africa, suggests that the situation is deteriorating and could pose serious risks to African migrants, including many Bamasaba who have established businesses and livelihoods in the country.

“The Umukuka is extremely worried about the fate of his people in South Africa. Many of them have lived there for years as lawful residents, refugees, workers and business owners. They are now living in fear because of increasing hostility directed at foreign nationals,” Masiga said.

The Umukuka has thus called upon President Museveni, the African Union, the United Nations and other international bodies to intervene and ensure the protection of migrants whose rights are guaranteed under international law.

“The President of Uganda, the African Union and international organizations such as the United Nations must step in. These people are protected by various international conventions and human rights treaties. Their safety and dignity must be safeguarded,” he added.

Masiga further urged South Africans to remember the historical solidarity demonstrated by African countries during the anti-apartheid struggle.

“We must not lose sight of history. Uganda and many African countries stood with South Africa during the liberation struggle. Uganda hosted ANC combatants and provided support to the liberation movement. We collectively fought oppression as Africans and should not now turn against one another,” he said.

The Bugisu Cultural Institution spokesperson warned that xenophobic attacks undermine the spirit of Pan-Africanism and regional integration that African leaders have championed for decades.

He noted that reports from South Africa indicate that some migrant-owned businesses have been targeted, while foreign nationals continue to face intimidation and discrimination despite contributing positively to the country’s economy.

“Information reaching us suggests that businesses owned by migrant communities are increasingly under threat. Many of these individuals have built their livelihoods through legitimate means and contribute significantly to economic growth,” Masiga said.

He added that the institution is considering engaging relevant continental and international mechanisms to advocate for the protection of affected communities.

“As someone trained in international law, I believe there is a strong basis for petitioning relevant regional and international bodies to act. Human rights and the rule of law must prevail,” Masiga stated.

South Africa has in recent years witnessed sporadic outbreaks of xenophobic violence, often targeting migrants from other African countries. Human rights organizations have repeatedly called for stronger measures to protect foreign nationals and address underlying socio-economic tensions fueling such incidents.