The United States under President Donald Trump is considering a sweeping expansion of its travel ban, with Uganda among 36 countries that could face full or partial suspension of entry into the U.S. a move that has triggered concern over diplomatic ties, economic impact, and global mobility.
Uganda may soon find its citizens restricted from entering the United States, as President Donald Trump’s administration intensifies its immigration crackdown. An internal U.S. State Department cable, signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and seen by Reuters, outlines plans to add 36 countries to a list of nations facing potential travel bans unless they meet stringent U.S. national security and visa requirements within 60 days.
Other countries under review include Nigeria, Ethiopia, Ghana, Egypt, Tanzania, Cameroon, Zimbabwe, and Democratic Republic of Congo, among others.
For Uganda, which enjoys close development, military, and educational partnerships with the United States, the looming restrictions could deal a significant blow to mobility, trade, education exchange programs, and the Ugandan diaspora already living and working in America.
“The Department has identified 36 countries of concern that might be recommended for full or partial suspension of entry,” reads the cable. The directive follows President Trump’s earlier proclamation this month that barred travelers from 12 other nations, citing “foreign terrorist threats” and gaps in international cooperation.
While U.S. officials argue that the bans are part of efforts to protect national security and uphold rigorous screening processes, the announcement has been met with unease in Kampala. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has yet to issue an official response, but immigration experts warn that such a move could affect thousands of Ugandans hoping to visit, study, or work in the United States.
“It’s a wake-up call,” said Sarah Nakato, an immigration policy analyst in Kampala. “Uganda must urgently review its data-sharing, passport security, and counterterrorism cooperation protocols to avoid isolation from global partners.”
The proposed ban comes at a time when many Ugandan students and skilled workers are increasingly looking to the U.S. for opportunities. Ugandans enrolled in American universities and those pursuing work permits under exchange programs could face heightened scrutiny or even deportation if the ban takes effect.
President Trump’s tougher immigration stance now in his second term has already resulted in hundreds of deportations and visa denials across various countries. A travel ban against Uganda would not only mark a new chapter in U.S.-Uganda relations but also place further strain on cross-border collaboration in areas such as health, security, and business.
As the 60-day deadline approaches, Uganda and other named countries are under pressure to demonstrate compliance with the U.S.’s stated security benchmarks or risk being shut out.
If implemented, the ban could spark widespread reaction from Ugandan citizens, civil society, and international observers concerned about fairness, due process, and the long-term impact of blanket restrictions.
