The United States has issued a travel advisory warning its citizens against traveling to Uganda, citing the recent anti-LGBTQ+, laws.
In the travel advisory the US government stated that there remains a risk of terrorist attacks in Uganda.
“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.
UGANDA Travel Advisory: The United States has updated its travel advisory for Uganda to reflect recently enacted anti-LGBTQI+ legislation. Reconsider travel to Uganda due to crime, terrorism, & anti-LGBTQI+ legislation. Read the full travel advisory: https://t.co/DDUMaO2dxw pic.twitter.com/iPeItDD43i
— U.S. Mission Uganda (@usmissionuganda) June 13, 2023
This warning by the US comes after Uganda passed the 2023 Anti-Homosexuality Act which stipulates 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. The law reads in part.
“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 further reads.
Also Read: Uganda Passes Bill Imposing Death Penalty to People Identifying as LGBTQ
Furthermore, US citizens have been advised to keep a low profile and not display signs of wealth such as jewelry and watches if they travel to Uganda.
“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.
Moreover, Uganda’s anti-homosexuality bill, has been described as among the harshest in the world.
It allows 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.
Likewise, it stipulates a 20-year sentence for “promoting” homosexuality and a life sentence for same-sex intercourse.
Furthermore, firms including media and non-governmental organizations that knowingly promote LGBTQ activity will also incur harsh fines, under the law.