Xenophobic attacks: Ugandan envoy issues guidelines

By David Lumu

CAUGHT in the middle of a sweeping wave of anti-immigrant violence in South Africa, a 14-year-old boy was among the five people, who have been killed in Durban, where xenophobic attacks started.

Scores of other foreigners have also been injured in a violent crack-down on African aliens by some elements in South African. The violence has threatened several foreign nationals and countries such as Malawi have already sent buses to evacuate citizens.

Other foreigners have been confined into camps as they wait for rescue efforts. Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, Tanzania are among the countries whose citizens have been confirmed killed or injured during this racists violence that started last week.

Okello Oryem, the state minister for foreign affairs said on Thursday that Government is closely monitoring the situation.

According to the Uganda High Commissioner to South Africa, Julius Peter Omoto, so far no Ugandan has been caught up or killed in the ongoing violence—targeting mainly African immigrants.

“Xenophobic attacks in South Africa have led to loss of life (a total of five people, including a 14-year-old boy, have been killed in the Durban area during violence that began last week), property and fear amongst foreign nationals living and working South Africa. Although no Ugandan has so far been killed due to these attacks,” he said yesterday in a brief notice to Ugandans living and working in South Africa.

Omoto has also issued several guidelines for Ugandans in light of the ongoing violence.

“Ugandans are advised to stay safe in their local community where they reside. Stay safe on the right side of the law including an up to date account with Government agencies,” he said.

Omoto said that the Uganda High Commission in Pretoria is in consultation with other African Ambassadors are engaging the South African authorities to solve the issue of violence.

By Thursday, the South African police had repulsed the racist groups that are causing havoc. Omoto said that: “Durban in Kwazulu Natal is also reported calm this morning as result of clear messages by the Government of South Africa [and that]the threat of attacks in Johannesburg Central Business District has been put under control”.

Other guidelines

• The chairpersons of local associations should register all their members to build a data base of Ugandans in their locations.

• Until the violence subsides, Ugandans are advised to avoid partying and outdoor activities.

• Do not live a very conspicuous lifestyle that annoys the public.

• Make photocopies of your passport, Visa, Identity Cards, Yellow fever certificates and carry them all the time.

• If you drive, make sure you have the original drivers’ license with you.

• Make sure all your paperwork is in order.

• Email copies of your documents to a good friend.

• Lastly but not least try to remember a telephone contact of a good friend on your list.