The Ugandan government has handed over Shs 10 million to the families of three Ugandans who were killed during the recent wave of anti-immigrant violence in South Africa.
The financial support was presented by Acting Minister for Foreign Affairs, Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo, on behalf of the government as part of ongoing efforts to stand with families mourning the loss of their loved ones.
Kasolo described the gesture as a message of solidarity, assuring the bereaved families that government remains committed to supporting them during this difficult period.
The three Ugandans lost their lives during violent attacks targeting foreign nationals in several parts of South Africa. Government previously confirmed that one of the victims was identified as Wilbert Nuwamanya, while efforts have continued to establish the identities of the remaining victims and facilitate the return of their bodies.
The handover comes just days after Uganda launched an emergency evacuation exercise that has seen hundreds of stranded Ugandans flown back home aboard chartered flights. The operation was initiated following escalating unrest that forced many migrants to flee after losing homes, businesses and personal property.
Speaking during the exercise, Kasolo reaffirmed government's commitment to ensuring that every Ugandan affected by the violence receives the necessary support. He also thanked the various government agencies and Uganda's diplomatic mission in South Africa for coordinating the evacuation and assistance efforts.
According to government figures, hundreds of Ugandans have already returned home, with additional evacuees expected as authorities continue working with South African counterparts to facilitate safe repatriation.
The latest violence has once again highlighted the recurring challenge of anti-immigrant attacks in South Africa, where foreign nationals have periodically been targeted during outbreaks of unrest. Uganda says it will continue engaging South African authorities to safeguard its citizens while providing support to those returning home and the families left behind.