The Government of Uganda has safely evacuated 41 students from Iran as conflict intensifies in the region, reaffirming its commitment to citizen safety abroad.
The group arrived at Entebbe International Airport on Monday, where they were received by the Prime Minister, Robinah Nabbanja. She praised President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his swift intervention. “The government took immediate action to ensure our citizens returned home safe and sound. This was possible because of President Museveni’s leadership,” Nabbanja said.
She also commended the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) for coordinating the evacuation, highlighting the role of Maj Gen Bob Ogiki, Uganda’s Defence Attaché to Türkiye, in ensuring the group’s safe transit.
Maj Gen Felix Kulayigye, Director of Defence Public Information, echoed the Prime Minister’s remarks. “This is a testimony that the government is cautious about Ugandans even when they are far away from home,” he said, urging the students to remain safe until conditions allow for the resumption of their studies.
Joseph Barigye, First Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, applauded the collaboration between Uganda’s embassies, the UPDF, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. “It was a coordinated effort, and we are proud of the team that made this possible,” he noted.
Student representative Isaac Nimwesiga expressed gratitude for the evacuation. “The situation in Iran was terrifying, but we are grateful to everyone who made our evacuation possible,” he said.
Another returnee, Sarah Mayanja, thanked the government for its support. “We didn’t have to worry about anything. The government made sure we were secure every step of the way,” she said.
Officials from Uganda’s embassy in Iran were also present at the airport to welcome the students and support final repatriation efforts.
Prime Minister Nabbanja reassured the public that the government remains ready to evacuate more Ugandans still caught in global crisis zones and urged those in need to reach out to the nearest Ugandan missions abroad.
