Important protection
Specialist Uganda insurance may be required if you plan to do business or charity work in this beautiful country, known as ‘the Pearl of Africa’. Though Uganda largely enjoys political stability and most visits here are trouble free, there are potential risks that should be taken into account. Islamist groups based in Somalia pose a threat and there are security tensions in the Karamoja region and along the borders with DR Congo and Sudan.
Following its independence in the 1960’s Uganda suffered for decades under the warring and notoriously brutal dictatorships of Milton Obote and Idi Amin. In 1986 Yoweri Museveni came to power and he has been largely credited with country’s progress towards prosperity and democracy.
Today much of Uganda is a safe prospect for foreign nationals, however it still has its potential dangers and hazards; specialist Uganda insurance may be required.
As is in most African countries, International Health insurance in Uganda is vital. Make sure you have the required vaccinations prior to arrival and take strict precautions against malaria and waterborne disease. Serious injury or illness will require air ambulance evacuation to a country with up-to date medical facilities so make sure your Uganda insurance has this covered. UK health authorities have classified Uganda as having a risk of Zika virus transmission. An outbreak of Ebola in 2022 was well contained but it also remains a risk to be aware of.
There is some risk of terrorist attack throughout the country. The capital Kampala has been the main target of the Al-Shabaab group, so be vigilant in public places.
Kampala is a relatively safe city as regards crime, though you should avoid overt displays of wealth, or carrying too much in the way of valuables. Since credit card crime is quite prevalent, advice is to use cash where possible. Make sure your Uganda travel insurance gives adequate protection to your personal possessions. If you have a business here or you are importing exporting, Trade and Political Risk insurance will cover operational uncertainties.
Road travel is frequently hazardous because of low road and vehicle maintenance and poor driving standards. For this reason, and the risk of banditry, it should be avoided at night outside of major towns.
Travel in northern Uganda can be potentially dangerous near the border with southern Sudan and DR Congo. Tribal militias operate in the north-eastern region of Karamoja, and though foreign visitors aren’t usually a target, they run the risk of being caught up in violence and even kidnapped.
Keep updated with local and FCDO advice should you travel here and be mindful that standard insurance may be not be adequate.
The Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) in the UK regularly updates its advice to British travellers about immediate risks.