Uganda’s Ambassador to South AfricaThe Government of Uganda has announced plans to coordinate and fund the emergency evacuation of Ugandan nationals stranded in South Africa following an increase in xenophobic attacks targeting African migrants.
Speaking to the media on June 29th, 2026, Uganda’s Ambassador to South Africa, H.E Paul Amoru, revealed that approximately 1,000 Ugandans have so far registered as vulnerable and require urgent government assistance.
“About 1,000 Ugandans have so far registered as severely distressed or vulnerable and require a government-coordinated and government-funded emergency evacuation,” Amoru said.
According to Amoru, the deteriorating security situation has been driven by coordinated protests that have pressed on for the past three months. The demonstrations, led by vigilante groups, have increasingly targeted African migrants accused of competing with South African citizens for limited employment opportunities.
“Many Black South Africans believe African migrants are taking up the limited job opportunities that should be available to South African citizens,” Amoru noted.
He added that the protests have evolved into attacks against foreign nationals, creating widespread fear among migrant communities.
“For the past three months, South Africa has experienced coordinated protests by vigilante groups targeting African migrants,” he said.
Amoru further said that the Ugandan government is working closely with South African authorities and other relevant stakeholders to safeguard its citizens and facilitate the safe return of those wishing to leave.
“The Government of Uganda is working closely with all relevant stakeholders to ensure the safety and welfare of affected Ugandan nationals in South Africa,” he noted.
The Ambassador confirmed that the violence has already had devastating consequences for some Ugandans living in South Africa.
“The threat is real. Some Ugandans have been assaulted, others have lost their jobs, and on June 27th, we lost one of our nationals in KwaZulu-Natal after he was attacked and his motorcycle stolen,” Amoru said.
The government has urged Ugandans in South Africa, particularly those facing immediate danger or hardship, to register with Ugandan diplomatic missions and remain in contact with embassy officials as evacuation arrangements continue.
Amoru noted that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue monitoring developments and provide updates as efforts to protect Ugandan citizens and facilitate their safe return progress.
