U.S. Embassy Kampala alerts U.S. citizens to ongoing violent confrontations between Ugandan security forces and armed elements in the western district of Kasese near the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Reports indicate several deaths have resulted from the conflict so far. This area is near popular tourist destinations such as national parks and the Rwenzori Mountains. While there is no indication that foreign nationals are being targeted, the situation remains fluid and unpredictable. The U.S. Embassy recommends U.S. citizens traveling or living in the area exercise caution and monitor local media for the latest news on the situation.
- Know the nearest “safe areas”- such as a local hospital.
- Take extra precautions when driving through crowds. Always keep windows up and doors locked. Do not leave valuable items in plain view inside the vehicle.
- Plan your route in advance to avoid expected areas of congestion and choke points. Maintain space to maneuver in traffic. Park only in controlled, safe locations.
- Keep your mobile phone charged and turned on.
- Ensure you and your family members have an emergency plan.
For further information:
- See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Country Specific Information for Uganda.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Contact the U.S. Embassy in Uganda, located at Plot 1577 Ggaba Road, Kamapala, at :+(256)(0) 414-306-001 and +(256)(0)312-306-001 or e-mail at KampalaUScitizen@state.gov. The Embassy is open Monday-Thursday, 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and Friday 7:30 – 12:30 a.m. For after-hours emergencies, U.S. citizens should call +(256)(0) 414-306-001 and ask to speak with the Embassy duty officer.
- Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
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