Kampala, Uganda: The United States Embassy in Uganda has issued a security alert warning of increased criminal activity across Uganda, particularly in Kampala and surrounding metropolitan areas.
In a public advisory issues Friday, February 20, to U.S. citizens in Uganda, the Embassy cited press reports indicating a rise in crime, including violent incidents, and urged Americans to heighten personal security awareness at all times.
“There are current press reports of an increase in crime around Uganda, including Kampala. U.S. Embassy Uganda reminds U.S. citizens that crime, including violent crime, can happen throughout Uganda at any time of the day. Personal security should always be on your mind,” the advisory reads in part.
The Embassy outlined a series of precautionary measures aimed at reducing vulnerability, including avoiding walking or running alone, especially at night or early morning hours.
The Embassy also advised its citizens to consider traveling with buddies and driving where possible. It also cautioned against carrying visible valuables and to minimise the number of phones and expensive items when traveling around.
“Remain alert and aware of surroundings
Change direction if suspicious activity is observed. Avoid demonstrations and large crowds and keep doors and windows locked at all times.”
The advisory further warned that criminals often operate in teams and may use distractions to target victims.
Rising Urban Crime Concerns
The Embassy alert comes amid growing public concern over increased criminality in Kampala and the greater metropolitan area, including robberies, phone snatching, home break-ins, and violent attacks, particularly during night and early morning hours.
Security analysts say urban population growth, economic pressures, and unemployment have contributed to opportunistic crimes in densely populated suburbs.
Although the Embassy did not impose travel restrictions, it emphasised vigilance, noting that crime can occur at any time of day.
Such diplomatic security alerts often signal heightened monitoring of local security conditions and may influence travel advisories, international perceptions, and expatriate community behavior.
Ugandan authorities have in recent months stepped up police patrols and intelligence-led operations in high-risk zones within Kampala Metropolitan in response to crime spikes.
The latest U.S. alert underscores renewed calls for strengthened urban policing, improved surveillance, and enhanced community vigilance as Kampala continues to expand.
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