The Government of Uganda announced an emergency evacuation of its citizens from South Africa following escalating xenophobic violence targeting foreign nationals. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to coordinate the exercise, with hundreds of Ugandans already seeking government assistance.

The government yesterday activated an emergency evacuation plan for Ugandans living in South Africa after renewed anti-migrant violence left many fearing for their safety.

Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo says President Yoweri Museveni directed that immediate arrangements be made to bring affected Ugandans back home.

The Ministry says preparations are in the final stages, with several government agencies working alongside Uganda's High Commission in Pretoria and leaders of the Ugandan community to coordinate the operation.

So far, 746 Ugandans have voluntarily registered for evacuation, although officials expect the number to increase as more citizens seek assistance.

Authorities say the evacuation exercise will include registering affected Ugandans, transporting them to designated assembly centers, processing emergency travel documents where required, and facilitating their departure through Uganda Airlines chartered flights fully funded by the government.

Even as preparations continue, Uganda says it remains in contact with South African authorities to guarantee the safety of citizens who will remain behind.

The announcement comes amid growing concern over renewed xenophobic attacks that have spread across parts of South Africa in recent weeks.

For years, South Africa has experienced periodic outbreaks of violence targeting foreign nationals, driven largely by frustration over unemployment, crime, and poor service delivery. Migrants from several African countries have often borne the brunt of the attacks, forcing governments across the continent to step in to protect their citizens.

Uganda's decision follows reports of increasing threats against foreign communities and comes as several African countries also move to evacuate or assist their nationals.

The ministry also confirmed that one Ugandan was killed during an attack in KwaZulu-Natal Province, with the government now making arrangements to repatriate the body.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says the evacuation exercise is expected to commence within the next few days and has urged Ugandans still in South Africa to remain in contact with the Uganda High Commission for further guidance.