New Threat Warning

We received a new warning and are concerned about being able to get out of the country for our return home...

Warden Message - Security Reminder
Kampala, Uganda
September 22, 2009

In response to the recent terrorist attacks in Somalia and U.S. military action resulting in the death of Saleh ali Saleh Nabhan, a leader of Al Qaeda’s East Africa operations, and the recent attack attributed to Al Shabaab against African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), which included the death and injury of Ugandan soldiers, the U.S. Mission to Uganda would like to remind American citizens of the threat of terrorism against U.S. facilities, personnel, and interests in East Africa. U.S. citizens in Uganda are also reminded of the warning for East Africa that is part of the Worldwide Caution warning of the continuing threat of terrorism in the region.

Although the U.S. Mission is not aware of specific threat information related to Uganda or U.S. interests in Uganda, U.S. citizens are reminded that a number of Al Qaeda and Al Shabaab operatives and other extremists are believed to be operating in and around East Africa. U.S. citizens residing or traveling in the region should carefully review their travel plans, remain vigilant with regard to personal security, and exercise caution. Terrorist actions may include suicide operations, bombings, kidnappings, and/or targeting maritime vessels. Terrorists do not distinguish between official and civilian targets. Increased security at official U.S. facilities has led terrorists to seek “softer” targets such as hotels, beach resorts, landmarks, and other prominent public places (i.e., shopping venues). U.S. citizens in remote areas or border regions where military or police presence is limited or non-existent could also become targets.

U.S. citizens with questions or concerns may telephone the Consular Section of the U.S. Mission to Uganda at (256) (0) (414) 306 001 or (256) (0) (414) 259 791. In case of an emergency outside business hours, or during any suspension of public services, U.S. citizens may reach the U.S. Mission duty officer at the same numbers.

U.S. citizens are advised to register and update their contact information with the U.S. Mission to Uganda. The U.S. Mission is located at Plot 1577 Ggaba Road. The phone number is (256) (0) (414) 306 001 or (256) (0) (414) 259 791, fax (256) (0) (414) 258 451, email: KampalaUSCitizen@state.gov, and travel registration website: https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/.

For the latest security information, U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs internet website at: http://travel.state.gov/, where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Alerts, Travel Warnings, and Country Specific Information can be found. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S. and Canada, or, for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. Federal Holidays).

Sincerely,
Consular Section
U.S. Embassy Kampala