At least 170 Ugandans who are working in United Arab Emirates are expecting to be flown back home in coming weeks.
The Uganda Record has exclusively learnt that Ugandans in Abu Dhabi are desperate to return home over Cornonavirus pandemic, and several meetings have been held.
“What’s currently taking place is registration of those willing to be flown back. A meeting between Uganda’s Embassy here and authorities here have taken place,” one of the Ugandan workers, who preferred not to be named, told TND News.
Two weeks ago, President Museveni directed closure of Entebbe International Airport as one ways of preventing COVID 19 cases in Uganda.
However, UAE authorities and that of Uganda, according to sources, have started discussing wheather to open the airport to allow hundreds of Ugandans come back or not.
“The ambassador says those wanting to go home should come out and register with the embassy or the respective community leaders in each emirate so that preparations to fly them back home can be arranged through UAE carrier subsequent to getting the landing right from Uganda government,” a letter to Ugandans in Abu Dhabi, written by their chair, Ismael Sebugwaawo reads in part.
“The number of those traveling should not be less than 170 people as per the carrier’s requirement. This therefore warrants everyone wanting to go home to register quickly so arrangement can be made,” the letter adds.
Each traveller will have to pay for own travel cost – amounting to Dh2,200, the letter further indicates.