Security Alert – U. S. Embassy Kampala (March 26, 2020)
Location: Central Kampala, Uganda
Event: On March 26, 2020 Ugandan authorities used gunfire to enforce the closures of shops selling non-food goods to comply with President Museveni’s prohibition on such sales in attempts to enforce social distancing in light of COVID-19. Looting of pickup trucks transporting goods has also been reported.
U.S. government personnel are advised to avoid central Kampala to the extent possible, and if travel through Kampala is unavoidable, ensure all doors are locked and windows fully closed. As many local businesspersons find themselves in dire financial situations due to loss of income, they may turn to criminal activity to obtain funds to purchase food and other items. U.S. government personnel have been informed that there will likely be a significant increase in crime and that criminal activity may increase, easing only when the government ban on public transportation and business operations is lifted.
The Department of State has issued a Global Level 4 Health Advisory for COVID-19.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 2 Global COVID-19 Outbreak Notice.
Actions to Take:
- Avoid central Kampala.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Keep a low profile.
- Avoid travel after dark, especially on foot.
- Monitor local media for updates.
- Avoid crowds.
- Avoid demonstrations.
- Stock up on food and other household products (medications).
- Ensure all residential doors and windows are locked, even when you are home.
- Review your personal security plans.
- Visit our Embassy webpage on COVID-19 for information on conditions in Uganda related to COVID-19.Assistance:
- U.S. Embassy Kampala
1577 Ggaba Road
Kampala, Uganda
KampalaUSCitizen@state.gov
https://ug.usembassy.gov
- State Department – Consular Affairs
- 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
- Uganda Country Information
- Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts.
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