The US advisory urges travellers to avoid Uganda, Somalia, South Sudan and the DRC.
The State Department urges travellers to avoid Uganda, Somalia, South Sudan and the DRC, citing security threats, health risks and limited emergency assistance.
A US travel warning has placed Uganda, Somalia, South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo at Level 4. The State Department urged Americans to avoid the four countries because of security and health risks.
The advisory, issued on November 9, cites terrorism, violent crime, kidnapping, political unrest and health concerns. It also warns that US officials have limited capacity to provide emergency assistance in affected areas.
Level 4 is the highest category in the United States’ four-tier travel advisory system. It carries a recommendation not to travel.
US travel warning highlights risks in Uganda
For Uganda, the department highlighted terrorism, armed robberies, home invasions and sexual assaults. It also cited an ongoing Ebola outbreak as a factor complicating emergency assistance.
The advisory warned of possible terrorist attacks on religious institutions, schools, government buildings and police stations. Transport centres and tourist attractions could also face attacks, particularly in major cities such as Kampala.
Meanwhile, the department cautioned that demonstrations could begin without warning, especially around political events. It said security officers had previously used tear gas, batons and rubber bullets against protesters.
The US government also raised concerns about Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act of 2023. The law criminalises consensual same-sex relations and applies to citizens and foreigners, with offenders facing life imprisonment.
Somalia risks and emergency precautions
In Somalia, the advisory cites crime, kidnapping, terrorism, unrest, health concerns and landmines. The department therefore advised against travel there for any reason.
It also raised concerns about piracy and the systematic mistreatment of women and gay people. Other warnings covered abuse in rehabilitation centres and family members confiscating passports.
For the DRC, the department listed health risks, crime, unrest, terrorism and kidnapping. South Sudan also falls under the highest warning category.
For Americans already in these countries, officials recommended registering with the Smart Traveller Enrollment Program, known as STEP. The programme provides security updates and helps diplomatic officials contact citizens during emergencies.
In addition, the US government urged citizens to avoid demonstrations and remain alert in public places. It recommended caution when walking or driving at night, alongside plans for an emergency departure.
