Hundreds of Ugandans caught up in the recent wave of insecurity and xenophobic attacks in South Africa have finally returned home after the government launched a major evacuation exercise. The first rescue flight carrying 273 Ugandan nationals landed safely at Entebbe International Airport on Friday, bringing joy and relief to families who had been anxiously waiting for their loved ones.
The returnees consisted of 255 adults and 18 infants, all of whom voluntarily chose to return to Uganda amid growing fears over their safety in South Africa. Many arrived exhausted but grateful, ending a difficult period marked by uncertainty and concern over the escalating situation in their host country.The chartered flight was part of a government-funded repatriation programme introduced to help Ugandans affected by the unrest.
Authorities moved in after receiving requests from citizens seeking assistance to leave South Africa and return to the safety of their homeland.Uganda’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Amb. Paul Amoru, accompanied the group throughout the journey and ensured the evacuation process was completed successfully. Upon arrival, the passengers were received by senior government officials led by Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Kyeyune Haruna Kasolo.
Addressing the media at Entebbe, Kasolo described the successful operation as a significant achievement and a reflection of the government’s determination to protect Ugandan citizens wherever they may be. He said every effort was being made to ensure that those affected by the crisis receive the support they need.The minister also applauded Uganda’s diplomatic mission in Pretoria and the different government agencies that worked tirelessly to coordinate the evacuation.
He noted that the operation required extensive planning and cooperation to ensure the safe transportation of the returnees.Kasolo reassured Ugandans who remain in South Africa that the evacuation exercise is still ongoing and that government has not abandoned them. He encouraged those who have registered for repatriation to remain in contact with Ugandan authorities as preparations for additional flights continue.
The latest development comes after government disclosed that nearly 1,200 Ugandans had expressed interest in returning home. With more rescue flights expected in the coming days, the arrival of the first batch marks the beginning of a large-scale effort to bring stranded Ugandans back home safely and restore hope to families affected by the crisis.
