At least a total of 1,030 Ugandans repatriated from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks are undergoing a remarkable transformation.
The exercise is taking place at the National Leadership Institute (NALI), Kyankwanzi, where government officials say the returnees are rediscovering hope, patriotism, and confidence in rebuilding their lives back home.
The Commissioner for the National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps (NSPC) at State House, Ms. Hellen Seku, says the rehabilitation and ideological orientation program has exceeded expectations, with many participants understanding that Uganda is the best place to invest their skills and secure their future.
According to Seku, out of the 1,030 Ugandans currently enrolled in the program, 438 are men, 261-women, and 331 children aged between zero and 16 years.
The group was repatriated after abandoning businesses, jobs, and homes following a wave of xenophobic violence in South Africa.
Now in its second week, the program focuses on patriotism, national identity, economic empowerment, and leadership.
Seku said many participants arrived feeling hopeless, traumatized, and uncertain about their future after losing livelihoods built over several years in South Africa. However, she said the intensive orientation has significantly changed their outlook.
Ms. Seku also praised Mulago National Referral Hospital and other government health facilities for supporting returnees requiring specialised medical attention.
She disclosed that some returnees arrived in poor health, while others suffered severe psychological distress and were unable to remember even their home districts.
By News room
14th July 2026
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