The US government has issued a security warning about a potential terror attack in Ugandan cities of Kampala and Jinja.
An alert dated November 6, 2023 issued by the US Embassy in Kampala, highlights “increased terrorist activity” and therefore need for “elevated degree of caution” targeting individuals considering to attend upcoming large public events in Kampala and Jinja.
“Due to increased terrorist activity, U.S. Embassy Kampala recommends that individuals exercise an elevated degree of caution and reconsider attendance at upcoming large public gatherings, such as large-scale worship services and music and cultural festivals in Kampala and Jinja.” The alert reads in part.
Additionally, the alert reminds individuals to be mindful when visiting locations where people tend to gather such as hotels, malls, and marketplaces.
Some of the upcoming events:
The alert comes just three (3) days to the popular Nyege Nyege Festival (8th edition) slated for 9-12 November 2023 at Source of the Nile in Jinja City. The fun-filled event characterized by frenzy, boozing, entertainment and arts brings together thousands of revellers from Uganda and across the globe.
The alert also comes twelve (12) days left to the Royal wedding of the Kyabazinga (King) of Busoga kingdom slated for November 18, 2023. The event is set to be held in Jinja City and multitudes of people are expected to gather in Bugembe, but also a series of events have been organized across the kingdom.
Uganda has since 1999 been a target of terrorists with a series of terror attacks often resulting in loss of innocent lives. The most recent incident is the grisly attack by suspected ADF rebels on two foreign tourists and their guide who were killed last month in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
