The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga has expressed disappointment with the treatment meted out by the South African Government on Ugandans seeking visas.
In her Communication from the Chair at the commencement of the Sitting of Parliament after a three weeks recess, Rt. Hon. Kadaga said that a number of Ugandans are treated unfairly at the South African Embassy where they have to go as early as 3.00a.m and are in most cases denied visas.
The Speaker added that even Ugandans who are just transiting through the South African airports are also required to acquire visas which is unfair since one is not leaving the airport premises.
“It is unnecessary to treat Ugandans in this way. Even when you are transiting and sitting at the airport in South Africa, you need a visa. This is not fair,” Kadaga said.
She wondered why the South Africans do not reciprocate the goodwill of Uganda where they get their visas on entry at Entebbe Airport.
“They should take note of Uganda’s contribution to the South African liberation struggle. We have many of their businesses here. They should treat our people with dignity, “she urged.
The Speaker called on the Ugandan Government to intervene in this situation so that people can travel easily.
She also urged government address, through the Foreign Affairs Ministry, the high fees charged by other governments for the use of the VIP Lounges at their airports; yet they enjoy a free service at Entebbe International Airport.
“We are charged about 1000 pounds for the use of a VIP terminal for just two hours. Government must come out to explain this situation,” she said.
