Ugandans in South Africa unfazed by fresh xenophobia threats
According to Lubega, Ugandans are employed in sectors such as education, healthcare, engineering, mechanics, transport and entrepreneurship, reducing direct competition with locals in low-skilled jobs that often become flashpoints during anti-immigrant campaigns.
Immigrants arrive with their belongings at a community hall to take refuge in Gansbaai, about 140km from Cape Town, on June 2, 2026, after they were threatened in the communities in which they live. A rising tide in anti-immigrant sentiment, including protest marches and even violent attacks has been taking place in various places around South Africa. (Photo by AFP)
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As groups of South Africans who claim to be tired of foreigners announce plans for a nationwide shutdown on June 30, 2026, many Ugandans living and working there say they are not concerned about the xenophobic threats.
The planned action, spearheaded by organisations such as 'Operation Dudula' and 'March-and-March', has renewed fears among immigrant communities. However, Ugandans across South Africa that New Vision talked to revealed that they are not scared because they are skilled workers, who do not compete with local South Africans for jobs.
Abubakar Lubega, a resident of Midrand in Gauteng, South of Pretoria, said many East Africans actively seek legal documentation and maintain regular contact with immigration authorities.
"The busiest day at the Department of Home Affairs offices is Tuesday, when East Africans are attended to. This shows that many Ugandans and other East Africans make an effort to stay on the right side of the law," he said.
According to Lubega, Ugandans are employed in sectors such as education, healthcare, engineering, mechanics, transport and entrepreneurship, reducing direct competition with locals in low-skilled jobs that often become flashpoints during anti-immigrant campaigns.
He said the Ugandan community has also established strong communication networks to share security information.
For some, South Africa has become home after many years of residence. Patrick Kisekka, who has lived in Pretoria since 2007, said returning to Uganda is no longer a simple option.
"My brother brought me to South Africa when I was young. I have spent most of my life here and learned several South African languages. This is the place I know best," he said.
Another Ugandan, Sunday Mwanje, who lives in KwaMhlanga in Mpumalanga Province with his wife and child, believes South Africa offers opportunities that are difficult to find back home.
"It is easier to survive in South Africa than in Uganda because labour laws are more inclusive and workers have stronger protection," he said.
Others argued that Ugandans generally enjoy cordial relations with local communities.
"When you tell people you are from Uganda, they generally receive you warmly because Ugandans are known to be friendly and easy to work with," he said.
The Ugandan High Commission in Pretoria has also moved to reassure citizens.
Osbert Atwiine, the National Resistance Movement South Africa Branch chairperson, said the mission has established mechanisms to assist Ugandans who may feel threatened.
"The embassy has created a desk to register anyone who feels unsafe. Those who wish to return home can also be assisted," Atwiine said.
Analysts note that while xenophobic incidents remain a recurring challenge in South Africa, Ugandans have largely avoided being primary targets due to their relatively small population, integration into local communities and concentration in skilled occupations.
Community leaders nevertheless urge Ugandans to remain vigilant, comply with immigration laws and follow official guidance.
South Africa hosts between 50,000 and 80,000 Ugandans, according to estimates from the Ugandan mission in Pretoria. Many are employed professionals, students and business owners spread across major cities including Pretoria, Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban.