Uganda UN delegation reduced after US visa denials

Uganda’s delegation to the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York has been significantly reduced to five members after several senior government officials were denied US entry visas. The small group is led by Vice President Jessica Alupo and includes Health Minister Chris Baryomunsi, Health Ministry Permanent Secretary Diana Atwine, and Foreign Affairs official Adonia Ayebare. Typically, Uganda sends between 30 and 50 officials to the annual meeting.

Washington has maintained special entry measures for travelers from Uganda due to concerns regarding the Ebola outbreak in the region. Although Uganda declared its Ebola outbreak over on July 28, the US Department of State and the CDC have continued to apply health-related restrictions. A CDC order issued on September 11 maintained restrictions on certain foreign nationals who were recently present in Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, or South Sudan.

Reports also indicate that Democratic Republic of Congo President Félix Tshisekedi has been unable to travel to the United States, though his prime minister was permitted to travel. The selective nature of these visa denials has raised questions regarding whether the measures are strictly based on public health or if they serve a broader diplomatic purpose.