A group of 43 Ugandan students studying in Tehran, Iran, safely arrived at Entebbe International Airport on March 5, 2026, after a government-led evacuation amid escalating military tensions in the Middle East.
Most of the students were from Ahlul Bayt International University. The evacuation followed intensified Israeli and U.S. strikes in late February, which prompted Uganda to act quickly to ensure their safety.
The students traveled overland for about 24 hours from Tehran to the Gürbulak border in Turkey, then another 18 hours to Istanbul. Turkish authorities issued transit visas, allowing them to board an Ethiopian Airlines flight back to Uganda. The plane touched down at 5:45 p.m., where government officials, family members, and representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development welcomed them.
State Minister for Children and Youth Affairs Balaam Barugahara praised the operation and thanked President Yoweri Museveni, the embassies in Iran and Turkey, and all agencies involved for ensuring the students’ safe return.
The evacuation was coordinated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with support from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces. Major General Bob Ogiki, Uganda’s Defence Advisor in Turkey, oversaw the border crossing and transit, while Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba was commended for leadership in the operation.
Officials said about 53 Ugandan students remain in Iran, mainly at QOM University. Authorities urged them to contact embassies for assistance. The evacuated students expressed gratitude for the government’s swift response, noting the long and challenging 950-kilometer journey through Iran to reach safety.
This successful operation highlights Uganda’s proactive approach to protecting its citizens during international crises.
