Uganda Prepares Evacuation for Citizens Amid Rising Threats in South Africa

Uganda has commenced preparations to evacuate its citizens from South Africa following urgent warnings from the nation’s High Commissioner, Paul Amoru. He described the current security situation as a “real” and mounting threat, necessitating government intervention.

Amoru indicated that the unrest has intensified over the past three months, prompting the activation of emergency procedures for affected Ugandans. Approximately 1,000 individuals have registered for evacuation, described as vulnerable and in need of government-assisted repatriation.

The violence, fueled by vigilante groups, has been reported across several South African provinces, including KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng. These groups are allegedly scapegoating African migrants, accusing them of taking local jobs in a country struggling with high unemployment.

Evacuation efforts will prioritize those who have lost their livelihoods, been displaced, or are in high-risk areas. The support package includes funded air tickets, complimentary emergency travel documents, and coordination with South African authorities for safe passage.

While the High Commission verifies eligible citizens, those with stable employment and residence permits are expected to remain, as the South African government assures efforts to contain the violence. Tragically, at least one Ugandan national has been killed in KwaZulu-Natal following an attack, highlighting the gravity of the situation.

This move places Uganda alongside other nations reviewing their contingency plans as anti-immigrant sentiment and tensions over jobs continue to rise in parts of South Africa.

Read more at: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/352213/the-threat-is-real-amb-amoru-as-citizens-face-evacuation-from-south-africa