The foreign missions of the United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), and Canada have issued travel and safety advisories to their nationals ahead of Uganda’s general elections on January 15, 2026.
In its latest advisory on January 13, the UK Embassy warned that previous elections and political events in Uganda have sparked protests and violence, sometimes resulting in fatalities.
“Presidential and Parliamentary elections are scheduled to be held in Uganda on 15 January 2026. Previous elections and political events have led to protests and violence, including fatalities,” read part of its advisory.
Travelers are advised to avoid political gatherings and large crowds, follow the instructions of local authorities, and monitor local media for updates on potential disruptions.
The advisory also noted that internet and social media services may be disrupted.
Travelers are encouraged to record important phone numbers, including those of airlines, travel operators, insurance providers, and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) for consular assistance.
The UK provided emergency contacts for assistance, which include +256 (0) 312 312 000 or +44 (0) 20 7008 5000.
US Embassy Warns Citizens
The US Embassy in Uganda warned that demonstrations and large gatherings could occur before, during, or after the elections, noting that security forces have recently used force to control crowds at political events in Kampala and across the country.
The advisory noted that previous elections have reportedly been marked by outbreaks of violence, internet disruptions, and mobile network or social media outages.
U.S. citizens have been advised to avoid political gatherings and large crowds, monitor local media for updates, and follow the instructions of local authorities.
According to the advisory, some businesses, including restaurants and grocery stores, may be closed on election day.
Travelers were advised to establish a communications plan with family or employers in case of internet outages.
Also Read: Canada Issues Travel Advisory to Its Citizens in Kenya Over Power Blackouts and Terrorism Threats
Citizens have also been advised to ensure access to cash, as ATMs, credit card machines, and mobile money apps may not function.
The Embassy advised its citizens to prepare 5–7 days of food, water, and medicine in case they need to shelter in place.
Travelers should avoid wearing clothing in colours associated with Ugandan political parties, including red, yellow, purple, and blue.
They were also advised to carry a fully charged phone and have emergency numbers readily available.
Consular assistance will be available 24/7 from the U.S. Embassy in Uganda at +256-312-306-001, +256-414-306-001, or +256-414-259-791, and from the U.S. State Department – Consular Affairs at 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444.
Also Read: UK Issues Strict Advisory for Benin and Neighboring Border Regions
Canada Issues Advisory
At the same time, the Government of Canada has warned that even peaceful demonstrations in Uganda can turn violent at any time and may disrupt traffic and public transportation.
According to an advisory shared by the Canadian government, local authorities in Uganda may impose additional security measures, including movement restrictions and curfews, during the election period.
Disruptions to telecommunications and internet access, including social media and messaging applications, may also occur.
The Ugandan government has imposed import restrictions on Starlink satellite internet equipment.
Canadians in Uganda have been advised to have a communication plan with key contacts and to save or print copies of important information in case of internet outages, including travel itineraries, contact details for the Canadian High Commission in Nairobi, the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa, and consular emergency phone numbers.
While in Uganda, Canadians should avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, expect an increased security presence, and follow instructions from local authorities, including any movement restrictions.
They have also been advised to monitor local media and ensure they have sufficient supplies of cash, food, water, fuel, and medication in case sheltering in place becomes necessary.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and X Account for real-time news updates.
