The United States Monday, June 12 warned its citizens against travelling to Uganda over the risk of crime, terrorism, and the recent anti-LGBTQ laws.
In a travel advisor, the US said there remains a threat of terrorist attacks in Kenya’s western neighbor and throughout the region.
“Violent crime, such as armed robbery, home invasion, and sexual assault, presents a serious threat to those visiting and residing in Uganda and can occur at any time, especially in larger cities, including Kampala and Entebbe, in the Karamoja region, and along Uganda’s western and northern borders. Local police may lack appropriate resources to respond effectively to serious crime in most areas,” warned the US Embassy in Uganda.
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The embassy said it 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.
“… [They] 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,” read the advisory.
“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.”
If they decide to travel to Uganda, US citizens were advised to, among other measures, keep a low profile and not display signs of wealth such as jewellery and watches.
“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,” added the advisory.
Uganda’s anti-gay law, which has been described as among the harshest in the world, stipulates capital punishment for “serial offenders” and for transmission of a terminal illness like HIV/AIDS through gay sex and for having same-sex relations with a person with a disability.
It also decrees a 20-year sentence for “promoting” homosexuality and a life sentence for same-sex intercourse.
Firms including media and non-governmental organisations that knowingly promote LGBTQ activity will also incur harsh fines, per the law.
