Afghanistan evacuees have started arriving in the country as Uganda and US confirm first batch of 51 who arrived Wednesday morning.

The 51 Afghanistan nationals are a group of 2000 expected into the country fleeing their country due to the ongoing insecurity after the Taliban victory.

Uganda and the US government both confirmed the arrival of the 51 Afghanistan nationals on Wednesday aboard a chartered flight at the Entebbe International Airport.

The government stated: “We have this morning received Fifty one (51) evacuees from Afghanistan and they arrived aboard a privately chartered flight at the Entebbe International Airport.”

The statement by government explained: “This follows a request from the US Government and acceptance by the Government of Uganda to temporarily host at-risk Afghan Nationals and other Nationals who are in transit to the United States of America and other destinations worldwide.”

Government went on: “Uganda and the United States of America enjoy long standing cordial bilateral relations which are historic in nature and continue to pursue common interests for the mutual benefit of both countries.”

Uganda added: “The decision to host those in need, is informed by the Government of Uganda’s consistent policy of receiving refugees and persons in distress as well as playing a responsible role in matters of international concern.”

On the identities of the Afghan nationals, government narrated: “The Evacuees who included men, women and children underwent the necessary security screening as well as the mandatory Covid-19 testing and the required quarantine procedures.”

However, on the evacuation of Ugandans trapped in Afghanistan, government stated: “Whereas it had been arranged for some Ugandans to travel on the above flight, due to the challenges of accessing the airport in Kabul, they were unable to make it. Arrangements are being made to bring them in the subsequent flight. Details of subsequent arrivals will be communicated in due course.”

United States, too, confirmed through their mission in Kampala above the arrival of the Afghan nations.

The mission revealed: “As the largest bilateral supporter of refugees in Uganda and their Ugandan host communities, the United States expresses its appreciation to the Ugandan people for their generosity and hospitality toward these communities.”

Adding: “The Government of Uganda has once again demonstrated a willingness to play its part in matters of international concern. We commend its efforts and those of the local and international organizations in Uganda who are providing humanitarian support in partnership with the Government of Uganda for these evacuees from Afghanistan.”