Uganda: Further protests likely nationwide through July following recent demonstrations over cost of living

Event

Further protests are likely nationwide through the end of July amid an increased number of demonstrations denouncing the rising cost of living in recent weeks. On July 11, security forces fired teas gas and live ammunition to disperse protesters gathered in several neighborhoods of Jinja and arrested an unspecified number of participants. Clashes have also been reported in the vicinity of Buwenge along the Kamuli-Jinja road as police attempted to disperse protesters obstructing road traffic. On June 14, police also arrested opposition position figure Kifefe Kizza-Besigye ahead of a planned protest in Kampala city center over the government’s alleged inaction regarding the socio-economic situation in the country. Similar protest activity has been reported in other parts of the country.

Likely gathering locations include main intercity roads, urban centers including Kampala, and government offices. Heightened security and localized traffic disruptions are likely in the vicinity of all related protests. Police are known to use rubber bullets and live ammunition to disperse gatherings. Clashes with security forces may occur.

Advice

Avoid all protests due to possible clashes. Allow additional time for travel near protest sites. If crowds form or violence occurs nearby, leave the area immediately and seek shelter in a secure location.