Uganda deploys charter flights to evacuate citizens from South Africa

Uganda will deploy special charter flights to evacuate its citizens from South Africa as anti-migrant violence continues to escalate.

The announcement was made in a press statement signed by Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs Hon. Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo after President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni directed that immediate arrangements be made to bring home Ugandans affected by the unrest.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it is coordinating the exercise 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 leaders of the Ugandan community.

According to the statement, “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.”

Authorities disclosed that 746 Ugandans have voluntarily registered for evacuation because of growing security concerns, with more registrations expected in the coming days.

The ministry added that many Ugandans had already departed South Africa independently after vigilante groups reportedly issued a 30 June 2026 ultimatum directing foreigners to leave the country.

The evacuation plan will involve registering affected nationals across South Africa’s provinces, transporting them to designated assembly centres, issuing emergency travel documents where required and working with immigration authorities to facilitate their departure.

The Ugandan government said it remains in contact with South African authorities to ensure the protection of Ugandan nationals who continue to reside in the country while evacuation arrangements are completed.

The statement also confirmed that one Ugandan was killed in 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 ministry said.

Uganda joins several African countries repatriating their citizens as violent anti-immigrant protests spread across parts of South Africa. Ghana, Malawi, Kenya, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Nigeria have all announced evacuation measures or facilitated the return of nationals following mob attacks and threats targeting foreign residents.

The Ugandan government said the evacuation exercise is expected to commence within the next few days as preparations are finalized, underscoring its commitment to ensuring the safe return of citizens affected by the deteriorating security situation in South Africa.