The Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs, Muwadda Nkunyingi, has urged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to begin issuing daily travel advisories for Ugandans intending to travel to the Middle East, citing growing regional instability due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran.
Addressing reporters on Tuesday, Nkunyingi expressed concern over the safety of Ugandan nationals in the region, warning that failure to act could leave citizens exposed to unpredictable security threats.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs should issue daily travel advisories to Ugandans intending to travel to countries in the Middle East,” Nkunyingi said.
“This will help them make informed decisions and avoid getting caught up in the conflict.”
He also pressed the government to urgently devise a comprehensive evacuation plan for Ugandans currently trapped in affected countries such as Israel and Iran.
“We cannot afford to leave our citizens stranded in a war zone,” he added. “The government needs to have a clear plan in place to evacuate those who are stuck.”
Nkunyingi further criticized the Ministry for failing to appoint a substantive Ambassador to Iran, arguing that such a presence would be critical in assisting Ugandans during times of crisis.
“It’s unacceptable that Uganda has not appointed a substantive Ambassador to Iran. This is a critical moment, and our citizens need direct support on the ground,” he said.
His remarks come as tensions continue to escalate in the Middle East, with increased concerns over the safety of foreign nationals in the region.
Uganda maintains diplomatic missions in several Middle Eastern countries, but some posts, including Tehran, have remained without permanent leadership.
Nkunyingi’s appeal highlights growing calls for the Ugandan government to take proactive steps to safeguard its diaspora, including labor migrants and students, many of whom live and work in volatile parts of the Middle East.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not yet responded publicly to the demands, but pressure is mounting for a coordinated response to the unfolding regional crisis.