US Embassy Warns Citizens to Heighten Security in Kampala After Uganda’s Post-Election Tensions
The United States Embassy in Uganda has issued a security alert to its citizens following reports of pockets of criminal activity in and around the capital, Kampala, amid heightened political tensions after the country’s general elections.
The advisory comes just days after Uganda concluded its fifth cycle of presidential and parliamentary elections, held on January 16. President Yoweri Museveni was declared the winner with more than 70 percent of the vote, defeating his main challenger, National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi, who garnered about 24 percent.
In a security alert released on January 18, 2026, the U.S. Mission in Uganda noted that the government announced the official election results on Saturday, January 17, and restored internet services that had been restricted during the polling period. Despite the restoration of connectivity, the embassy urged U.S. citizens to remain vigilant and avoid situations that could escalate into unrest.
“U.S. citizens are encouraged to continue to exercise enhanced precautions and avoid any demonstrations,” the alert said, citing the potential for sporadic criminal activity and political-related disturbances in the post-election period.
The embassy advised American nationals in Uganda to closely monitor local media for updates, avoid crowds and demonstrations, and maintain a low profile. It also urged individuals to stay aware of their surroundings, keep mobile phones fully charged with emergency numbers programmed, and carry proper identification, including a valid U.S. passport and current Ugandan visa.
Uganda has a history of post-election tensions, particularly in urban areas, prompting foreign missions to issue precautionary guidance as the country transitions into a new political term.
