Reconsider your travels: Africa faces criminal violence

The United States triggers a level 3 alert, recommending to reconsider all travel to an African state plagued by exacerbated criminal violence. Travelers are faced with growing threats, including organized crime, terrorist dangers, and oppressive legislation. LGBTQ+ travelers face an extreme risk due to repressive laws. Electoral proximity and social instability exacerbate dangers in tourist, civilian, and religious areas. Increased vigilance, discretion, and caution become imperative before any intention to stay in this country where political uncertainty, insecurity, and intolerance collide.

Key Point
Concerned Destination: Uganda, an East African nation.
Official Advisory: The U.S. State Department advises to reconsider all travel to Uganda.
Main Reasons: Criminal violence, terrorism, and discriminatory laws against LGBTQ individuals.
Alert Level: Level 3 (“Reconsider travel”) on a scale of 1 to 4.
Specific Risks: Assaults, armed robberies, home invasions, terrorist attacks, particularly in public and tourist areas.
Recommended Precautions: Avoid demonstrations and crowds, maintain a low profile, keep an eye on belongings, avoid traveling at night.
Concerned Public: All travelers, especially LGBTQ individuals and their allies.
News: Strengthening of the warning since April 23, 2025.

U.S. State Department Alert: Level 3 for Uganda #

The U.S. State Department now advises to reconsider any travel plans to Uganda, due to a tangible increase in risks related to crime, terrorism, and discriminatory legislation against LGBTQ individuals. This East African nation is thus seeing its status as a tourist destination called into question, under a level 3 warning.

Interpretation of Level 3: Reconsider all travel #

Level 3 on this scale means that there are serious security threats and that any travel to the country should be carefully considered. The U.S. scale has four levels: from level 1 (“Normal precautions”) to level 4, which advises against all travel. This classification is based on an analysis of threats against local populations and foreign visitors.

Risks related to crime and terrorism #

Uganda is experiencing a rise in violent crimes: armed robberies, home invasions, sexual assaults. Terrorist attacks, often targeting places of worship, schools, official buildings, police stations, transport routes, and tourist spaces, increase security precariousness. Tension is rising with the approach of the January/February 2026 elections, generating additional risks related to demonstrations.

Legislation against LGBTQ individuals and security repercussions #

Ugandan law penalizes any identification or open support for the LGBTQ community. Actual or perceived affiliation, as well as mere association with targeted individuals, can lead to severe legal consequences. *Any public affiliation with the LGBTQ movement can put you in grave danger*. It is advisable to adopt an extremely discreet stance on these topics.

Practical advice for travelers #

Following several recommendations increases safety during your stay. The U.S. government advises avoiding gatherings, keeping a low profile, and staying vigilant in tourist-frequented areas. Discretion should extend to outward presentation: avoid wearing ostentatious jewelry, expensive watches, or smartphones in plain sight. Vigilance also applies when withdrawing money at ATMs or banks. Never open your hotel room or accommodation door to strangers.

Risks during nighttime travel and displays of wealth #

Nighttime insecurity peaks in Uganda. Walking or driving at night exposes individuals to potential attacks. Any form of resistance during a robbery or break-in may worsen the situation. Abstention remains the safest choice for preserving your integrity. It is wise to consult examples of similar situations or inquire about travel arrangements for volunteer stays or new forms of travel.

Political and social consequences #

The approach of electoral deadlines creates a volatile atmosphere. The use of violence during demonstrations poses a real danger. Foreigners inadvertently caught up in these events may find themselves in extremely perilous situations. Visitors should avoid any popular gatherings or politically charged demonstrations. Some resources on alternative travel projects or managing disturbances during travel may prove valuable.

Final recommendations for travelers to Uganda #

The adopted demeanor should prioritize sobriety: *Do not display any opulence in public spaces*. LGBTQ travelers should consider the particular legal risks they face. All these recommendations fall under a policy of maximum caution, as consular assistance may be limited in extreme situations. To broaden the reflection on the safety of destinations, learning about traveler experiences in complex environments encourages vigilance and fosters better anticipation of risks.