UK Government Issues another Travel Advice for British Tourists to Uganda

The intention to travel is always your personal choice and the responsibility of ensuring personal safety during the trip totally lies in your hands. However as the governments of countries where tourists travel from, the safety and security of citizens abroad is taken seriously hence the provision of logical and appropriate information in travel advisories to allow them make the right decisions concerning International travels. Therefore, the government may not take responsibility and won’t be responsible for any damages in connection with the information provided.

More than 15,000 British Citizens visit Uganda every year and most of their travels are trouble-free. Nevertheless, the United Kingdom Government has issued another travel advisory for tourists planning to travel to Uganda. Due to the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, additional information has been provided on health screening measures at Entebbe Airport and border crossings owing to the fact that refugees are also entering the country. Much as earlier reports had indicated Ebola outbreak in one of the Ugandan districts, the Government through the Ministry of health has disproved the reports hence it is safe to travel to Uganda.

There are always demonstrations and rallies across the country and have always turned violent. With the Rukungiri by-election, violence can erupt anytime without warning thus tourists are cautioned t0 remain on the lookout, avoid large crowds as well as public demonstrations and always be updated with what is taking place in the country. Usually, the police use rubber bullets, tear gas and live ammunition to disband demonstrators hence the reason you have to avoid all demonstrations and rallies whenever possible.

In case the dem0nstration is near the Lodge or Hotel you are staying in, remain inside if you feel leaving the place is unsafe or threatening. Most importantly, make sure to be conversant with the security procedures within your place of stay. Also, exploitative crimes such as mugging, housebreaking, drive-by bag snatching and stealing from vehicles especially commuter taxis is common in Uganda.  There are some instances of tourists and even locals being drugged and later robbed in commuter taxis and bars. It is for this reason that you should not accept drinks or food from strangers.

Also, moving with expensive jewelry and large sums of money attracts the attention of potential thieves. Always leave your passport behind, avoid walking at night and be cautious when moving around (especially on foot). Valuables should not be left in the cars, doors and windows of vehicles should be locked when driving within Town or even when stationery.

The United Kingdom Authorities have categorized Uganda as having a moderate risk of Zika transmission. This is a viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes which mainly feed between dawn and dusk, hence pregnant women should consider re-scheduling non-essential trips until after pregnancy.  Because there is no vaccination or medication to prevent its transmission, all tourists should avoid mosquito bites between dawn and dusk, women should avoid becoming pregnant when traveling into the country and many other measures.

Although there are no threats for now, terrorists are likely to try carrying out attacks in Uganda and the attacks are always non-selective, targeting even places visited by tourists. Therefore, travelers have to be hawk-eyed at all times, especially when it comes to generally thronged and public places such as taxi/bus parks, Hotels, bars and restaurants as well as large gatherings like concerts and religious events. The 2010 terrorist attack that claimed lives of over 70 people and injuring many in the country targeted places where the World Cup matches were watched. British Nationals are advised to maintain vigilance while on their trips to Uganda.

All in all, travelers are advised to purchase a comprehensive medical and travel insurance before making trips to Uganda or any other country. For any emergency assistance (for British Nationals) from the United Kingdom Government, contact the British High Commission at 4 Windsor Loop Road, P.O Box 7070, Kampala Uganda. You can alternatively send an email to Kampala.Bhcinfo@fco.gov.uk or call +256 (0) 312 312000.