The leadership of the Bamasaaba cultural institution has expressed sorrow following the death of a Ugandan national from Manafwa District who reportedly died amid growing xenophobic tensions in South Africa.
According to the spokesperson of the Bamasaaba cultural institution, the deceased has been identified as Stephen Nambale, a native of Manafwa District in eastern Uganda.
The spokesperson said Nambale’s death is believed to have been linked to stress and trauma resulting from threats and uncertainty surrounding calls by some vigilante groups in South Africa for foreign nationals to leave the country.
Reports indicate that certain groups have reportedly set June 30 as a deadline for foreigners to leave South Africa, creating fear and anxiety among migrant communities. Cultural leaders say the situation has caused significant psychological distress for many foreign nationals living and working in the country.
Speaking on the matter, the Bamasaaba spokesperson noted that efforts by South African authorities to reassure foreign nationals and calm tensions have so far failed to fully address the fears spreading within affected communities.
The death of Nambale has deeply saddened the Bamasaaba cultural institution, with the Umukuka expressing grief over the loss of one of his subjects.
The institution has urged Ugandans living in South Africa and other areas experiencing hostility against foreigners to remain vigilant and prioritize their safety.
“We appeal to our people to remain on high alert and, where necessary, consider returning home. Uganda remains peaceful and offers opportunities for investment and development,” the spokesperson said.
The deceased was known to members of the Bamasaaba community and had previously accompanied cultural activities involving the Umukuka. A photograph taken during a visit to South Africa last year shows the late Stephen Nambale standing behind the Umukuka alongside a delegation from Southern Africa.
The incident has renewed concerns about the safety and welfare of Ugandans living abroad, particularly in countries that have experienced periodic outbreaks of xenophobic violence and anti-immigrant sentiment.
Further details surrounding Nambale’s death are still emerging. Authorities and community leaders continue to monitor the situation as concerns grow over the wellbeing of foreign nationals in South Africa.
