news 5 July 2026 Nile Post
Uganda Commits to Citizen Safety Abroad, Highlights South Africa Evacuation
The Ugandan government has underscored its dedication to protecting citizens overseas, citing the successful evacuation of nationals from South Africa amid xenophobic unrest as a prime example. A third group of 255 Ugandans returned, with officials assuring support for their reintegration. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/353908/governments-commitment-to-citizens-abroad-reflected-in-south-africa-evacuation-effort-says-foreign-service-officer
The successful evacuation of Ugandans from South Africa serves as a testament to the government’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens abroad, according to Foreign Service Officer Ambassador Dickson Ogwang Okul. He made these remarks upon receiving the third group of 255 Ugandans who were repatriated due to recent xenophobic attacks and unrest.
Ambassador Okul emphasized that this operation demonstrated the government’s resolve to protect Ugandans, no matter their location. He specifically acknowledged President Yoweri Museveni’s directive prioritizing the safety of Ugandans. The success of the evacuation was attributed to a coordinated effort involving diplomatic and military entities, highlighting effective inter-agency collaboration.
Key figures like Lieutenant Colonel Frank Murema of the Special Forces Command and Uganda’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Ambassador Paul Omoru, were commended for their roles. Colonel Chris Magezi also received recognition for his support, acting on behalf of the Chief of Defence Forces and Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations. The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and Special Forces Command provided critical operational planning and strategic support for the mission.
Colonel Magezi urged remaining Ugandans in South Africa to register for evacuation, noting that many were still in hiding. He encouraged them to return, citing Uganda’s significant economic growth and the numerous opportunities now available. The government pledged continued support for the returnees’ reintegration and financial recovery.
The Confederation of Uganda in Southern Africa (COUSA) expressed gratitude for the swift intervention and appealed for the evacuation exercise to be reopened, as approximately 1,200 Ugandans are registered and awaiting repatriation. COUSA officials noted that many returnees had lost jobs, businesses, and property during the attacks, and they thanked the government for assisting all affected Ugandans regardless of political affiliation.