By Our Reporter
NATIONAL
The United States of America (USA) has warned her citizens against traveling to Uganda apparently because of crime, terrorism, and anti-LGBTQI+ legislation.
- Be mindful that any public identification with the LGBTQI+ community, as either a member or supporter, could be grounds for prosecution, and that even private consensual same-sex relations are illegal.
In the Travel Advisory graded ‘Level 3 Travel Advisory’, and issued on the 12th June 2023, the US says its risky for Americans to travel to Uganda especially after the enactment of the Anti- Homosexuality Act 2023 which President Museveni assented to. Level 3 Travel Advisory means, ‘Reconsider travelling.’
The Advisory has been updated to reflect recently enacted anti-LGBTQI+ legislation.
“The May 2023 Anti-Homosexuality Act raises the risk that LGBTQI+ persons, and those perceived to be LGBTQI+, could be prosecuted and subjected to life imprisonment or death based on provisions in the law,” the Advisory reads in part.
It adds that Homos may be subject to mandatory reporting to the police if they are suspected of committing or intending to commit acts in violation of the law, and could face harassment or attacks by vigilantes.
Supporters of the dignity and human rights of LGBTQI+ persons (including those of youth under the age of 18) could be prosecuted and imprisoned for multi-year sentences.
It takes note of the fact that Social acceptance of homosexuality is very low and therefore LGBTQI+ persons, or persons perceived to be LGBTQI+, could face harassment, imprisonment, blackmail, and violence, with heightened risk surrounding the passage of the AHA.
The Advisory also says that the public is required to report to the police a person suspected of committing or intending to commit acts enumerated in the law (AHA).
Moreover, Hoteliers are not permitted to knowingly provide rooms to individuals who may commit acts deemed illegal in the AHA.
Individuals or organizations viewed as publicly supporting the dignity and human rights of LGBTQI+ persons could be prosecuted and imprisoned for multi-year sentence, including those that attend a same-sex marriage either inside or outside of Uganda’s borders.
It warns further that should any American choose to travel to Uganda, such a person(s) should note the following;
- Do not leave food and drinks unattended in public, especially in local clubs.
- Remain with a group of friends in public.
- Use caution when walking or driving at night.
- Keep a low profile.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.
- Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
- Do not open your door for people at your hotel/residence unless you know who it is.
- Stay alert in locations frequented by foreign tourists.
- Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
- Carry a copy of your passport and visa (if applicable) and secure originals in your hotel safe.
- Provide your itinerary to a family member or friend.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Be mindful that any public identification with the LGBTQI+ community, as either a member or supporter, could be grounds for prosecution, and that even private consensual same-sex relations are illegal.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebookand Twitter.
- Review the Country Security Reportfor Uganda.
- Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
- Visit the CDC pagefor the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
