Uganda reports three nationals killed in South Africa xenophobic attacks, offers compensation

The Ugandan government has confirmed the deaths of three of its citizens in recent xenophobic violence in South Africa. In a gesture of solidarity and support, the East African nation has provided financial compensation to the families of the deceased.

Haruna Kasolo Kyeyune, Uganda's acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced on social media platform X that he met with the families of Edrine Kirumira, Joseph Ainebyona, and Ronald Nasima. He conveyed the condolences of President Yoweri Museveni and presented each family with 10 million Ugandan shillings, equivalent to about 2,400 euros. "Although no amount of aid can fill the void left by the loss of a loved one, I pray that this gesture brings them comfort and reminds them that they are not alone," Kyeyune stated.

Beyond the compensation, Uganda is facilitating the return of its citizens. The Ugandan Embassy in Pretoria reported that at least 730 Ugandans have been repatriated on four flights, with at least two more flights anticipated. This repatriation effort is part of a broader exodus of African migrants from South Africa, with Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Ghana, Mozambique, and Kenya also organizing returns for their nationals.

The wave of xenophobic attacks in South Africa has intensified in recent months, fueled by anti-immigrant sentiment that blames migrants for the country's economic woes, poor public services, and high crime rates. While the South African government has condemned the violence, it maintains its right to control irregular immigration. This issue is a recurring problem in South Africa, with past outbreaks of violence resulting in significant loss of life.

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Although no amount of aid can fill the void left by the loss of a loved one, I pray that this gesture brings them comfort and reminds them that they are not alone.