Entebbe, Uganda: The first batch of 273 Ugandan nationals evacuated from South Africa under the Government’s voluntary repatriation programme has safely returned home, marking a major milestone in the ongoing evacuation exercise from the Xenophobic attacks in South Africa.
The returnees, comprising 255 adults and 18 infants, arrived at Entebbe International Airport aboard the first chartered evacuation flight on Friday.
The group was accompanied by Uganda’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Amb. Paul Amoru, and was received at the airport by senior government officials led by the Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Kyeyune Haruna Kasolo.
The evacuation follows the government’s decision to facilitate the voluntary return of Ugandans affected by the recent developments in South Africa.
Speaking after receiving the returnees, Minister Kasolo said the successful arrival of the first group demonstrates the government’s commitment to protecting Ugandan citizens abroad.
“I have today, 3rd July 2026, received Uganda’s Ambassador to South Africa, Amb. Paul Amoru, at Entebbe International Airport, who arrived alongside the first batch of more than 200 Ugandan nationals returning home from South Africa under the Government’s ongoing evacuation exercise.”
Kasolo commended Uganda’s diplomatic mission in Pretoria and all agencies involved in coordinating the operation.
“This marks an important milestone in our efforts to ensure the safe return of Ugandans affected by the recent developments in South Africa. I commend our Embassy in South Africa, together with all the government agencies and partners involved, for their dedication, professionalism, and coordinated efforts in making this operation possible.”
He reassured Ugandans still stranded in South Africa that the evacuation programme remains active and that government will continue facilitating voluntary returns.
“As we welcome home the first group of our compatriots, I wish to reassure all Ugandans that the evacuation exercise remains ongoing. The Government of Uganda remains fully committed to the safety and well-being of its citizens, and we will continue to serve tirelessly.”
The latest development comes days after Minister Kasolo announced that nearly 1,200 Ugandans had voluntarily registered for repatriation, with government pledging to meet the full cost of the evacuation.
Officials say additional flights will be arranged in phases as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues coordinating with Uganda’s High Commission in Pretoria and other stakeholders to facilitate the return of registered Ugandan nationals.
The voluntary repatriation programme was launched following recent security concerns in parts of South Africa that prompted government to organize the safe return of citizens wishing to come back home.
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