Winniefred Kabiri, a Ugandan entrepreneur, spent 20 years legally residing in South Africa, where she earned multiple degrees, raised her children, and built several businesses. However, rising xenophobic tensions in 2026 forced her and over 1,100 other Ugandans to return home.
South Africa has faced recurrent xenophobic violence since the late 1990s, often blaming migrants for economic challenges. This year, anti-immigrant campaigns intensified, leading to threats, protests, and violence targeting African migrants regardless of their legal status.
Kabiri left behind enterprises in commodities trading, mining, real estate, and perfume manufacturing, as well as a professional network she had cultivated over two decades. Another returnee, Mathias Baguma, lost a guesthouse, restaurant, and retail business after attacks and looting during the unrest.
Return and Reintegration Efforts in Uganda
The Ugandan government evacuated its nationals through six flights from Johannesburg and has initiated reintegration programs. Returnees receive counselling, health checks, and orientation on support initiatives, including opportunities in agriculture, tourism, technology, and small business development.
Kabiri expressed gratitude for the support but acknowledged the challenge of rebuilding her life after two decades abroad. She emphasized the emotional backing from family but noted the financial hurdles ahead.
"East or West, home is best," she reflected, focusing on creating a new future in Uganda after losing years of investment and stability in South Africa.
