The Ministry of Internal Affairs has confirmed the removal of Reid Samuel James, popularly known as Muzungu Boda on social media, from Uganda due to his illegal work status.
Simon Mundeyi, the ministry’s spokesperson, stated that Muzungu Boda had been working in the country without a valid work permit, which violated Uganda’s immigration laws. “To work in any country, an individual must possess a valid work permit. It is not permissible to work on a tourist visa, which is what he was doing while running a charitable NGO,” Mundeyi said in a press briefing on Monday.
Muzungu Boda’s Claims
Before leaving Uganda, Muzungu Boda admitted in an interview with *Nile Post* that immigration officials had detained him. He also confirmed that he had entered the country on a tourist visa, claiming that he wasn’t earning income but was simply helping vulnerable children.
“I go in and out of the country using a tourist visa. I don’t work or make money here. I just help the children like you’ve seen. Apparently, that is considered work, and immigration cancelled my visa immediately,” he told *Nile Post.
At the time, Mr. James requested that the story not be published, but just hours later, he posted similar claims on X (formerly Twitter). He quickly deleted the post, which left conflicting signals about the situation.
Ministry Refutes Claims
Mr. Mundeyi, speaking to *Nile Post* about Muzungu Boda’s original claims, refuted the idea that deportation was imminent. He explained that at the time, the Ministry was not aware of any issues at the Immigration offices regarding Boda’s status. However, sources within the immigration department had suggested that, following these claims, attention was drawn to his status, and deportation was now a matter of “when,” not “if.”
Ministry Clarifies
Mundeyi clarified that while Muzungu Boda held a valid tourist visa, his activities—classified as work—violated the terms of that visa. He was subsequently escorted back to his home country, New Zealand.
However, Mundeyi emphasized that Muzungu Boda was not technically deported, which is a legal distinction. Deportation would have prohibited him from returning to Uganda, but since his departure was organized, he could return in the future once he has the necessary documents.
“Deportation is ordered by the Minister or courts of law, and it prevents an individual from re-entering the country. In cases like this, individuals can return if they meet the requirements,” Mundeyi clarified.
Muzungu Boda’s Popularity
Muzungu Boda became widely known in Uganda and on social media through his engaging and entertaining video content, which showcased Ugandan life in a fun and relatable way. His signature style blended lifestyle vlogs, drifting stunts, and quirky skits, always with an underlying theme of deep affection for Uganda.
His casual attire—loose shirts, shorts, sandals, or worn sneakers—gave the impression of a laid-back, everyman style, reflecting the kind of life he portrayed in his content. Some of his stunts were intentionally outrageous, in a manner reminiscent of Sammy Manini.
Legal Implications
Uganda’s immigration laws strictly prohibit the use of a tourist visa for any work-related activities, including charitable work. This incident highlights the importance of adhering to visa regulations to avoid legal issues.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs reiterated its commitment to enforcing immigration laws in order to protect Uganda’s labor market and national security.
