The United States government released a security advisory on September 6th warning American citizens in Uganda about potential terrorism risks. The advisory from the US Embassy in Kampala comes after alerts from Ugandan security agencies about uncovered explosive devices.
The statement advised vigilance and avoiding crowded public places. It referred to an improvised explosive device discovered near a church in Kampala on September 3rd that police successfully located and detonated in a controlled explosion. However, unconfirmed reports suggest other devices may still be active.
The police reported recovering materials from the detonated IED, including a battery, detonator, powder container, 57 nails and phone parts in a burnt bag. In Rubaga Division, security forces also found and neutralized five additional IEDs, leading to six arrests.
Police Spokesperson Fred Enanga stated the overall security situation has not significantly changed, but the threat environment persists. He urged vigilance while shopping, worshipping, socializing or celebrating, and watching for suspicious objects or behavior.
The US currently classifies Uganda’s terrorism risk as Level 3, meaning to reconsider travel plans. In July, the UK issued a similar warning, despite criticism from Ugandan authorities. Two months later, Ugandan security confirmed the threat’s reality.
In February, a US counterterrorism report highlighted Uganda’s vulnerability to attacks due to factors such as porous borders, limited inter-agency cooperation, diversion of security resources, and strained community relations. Both countries maintain the risk warrants continued public advisories.