The Ministry of Defence has provided assurance that security agencies throughout Uganda are on high alert to prevent any potential terrorist threats targeting both local and foreign nationals. Brigadier General Felix Kulayigye, the spokesperson for the Defence Ministry, responded to the UK government’s travel advice warning, stating that the government of Uganda prioritizes the security of all individuals within its borders.
“We do not have any specific threat. Terrorism is a global threat, and as you are aware, the UK, US, and France have been previously attacked. Terrorism knows no borders and does not discriminate. Our country is not governed by the UK; we have a government that is committed to the security of its people. Our security forces remain vigilant, enabling us to dismantle terrorist cells wherever they exist,” said Kulayigye on Sunday, July 2, 2023.
He further emphasized that Uganda has not experienced any major terrorist attacks, not because terrorists have shown mercy, but because security agencies have successfully deterred them.
“People should remain vigilant. Our security agencies are vigilant, and by working together, we will defeat any threat to our country, just as we have done before,” Kulayigye stated.
Farouk Kirunda, the Deputy President’s Press Secretary, acknowledged the advisory issued by the UK government to its citizens but emphasized that Uganda is not at war. He assured everyone that the security forces are diligently working to ensure the safety and security of both citizens and visitors, concluding with a warm welcome to Uganda.
The UK’s warning highlighted the possibility of indiscriminate terrorist attacks against foreign nationals or places frequently visited by foreigners. They urged their citizens to remain vigilant at all times, particularly in crowded areas such as hotels, transport hubs, restaurants, bars, and during major gatherings like sporting or religious events. They also mentioned previous terrorist attacks in Uganda, which targeted security forces, locations where football matches were being watched, restaurants, buses, and government buildings.
The statement from the UK listed specific incidents, including the attack on a school in Mpondwe, Kasese District, on June 17, 2023, attributed to militants from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), resulting in the death of 42 people. It also mentioned previous bombings in central Kampala, on the Kampala to Masaka road, and in a restaurant in Kamamboga suburb. The UK advised individuals to stay vigilant and follow the guidance of local authorities, as the Uganda Police Force regularly issues alerts, especially during public holidays or religious events.
The UK further referenced the bomb attacks in Kampala during the screening of the World Cup final in July 2010, where over 70 people were killed and many others injured. Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility for those attacks, linking them to Uganda’s military presence in Somalia as part of the African Union peacekeeping mission (AMISOM) and threatening additional attacks in the region. The statement also mentioned that Daesh had claimed responsibility for more recent attacks in Uganda.
The UK acknowledged that the Ugandan authorities continue to work towards minimizing the risk of further attacks and advised that additional security checks, including baggage and vehicle searches, may be conducted in hotels and public places.
