Taiwanese Detained in Uganda Over Ebola Entry Ban; Ministry Offers Aid

Taiwanese citizens traveling in Uganda have had their passports confiscated by immigration officials, leading to denied entry. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed it is aware of the situation and is providing necessary assistance.

The ministry believes the passport seizures are connected to Taiwan's decision to temporarily suspend visa issuance and entry for Ugandan citizens, effective June 2. This measure was implemented in response to the escalating Ebola virus epidemic.

“

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is aware of the relevant situations and has provided necessary assistance to our citizens at the first time.

Taiwan's representative office in Somaliland, which covers Uganda, is working with the Uganda-Taiwan Business Association to support the affected citizens. The office will continue to engage with Ugandan authorities regarding the visa issues.

“

The relevant cases may be related to our country's temporary suspension of visa issuance and entry for Ugandan citizens starting from June 2, in response to the escalating Ebola epidemic.

Given the circumstances, the ministry advises Taiwanese nationals to carefully assess potential risks before traveling to Uganda. The travel advisory for Uganda is currently at Level 4, urging immediate departure. This is due to the Ebola outbreak, declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, as well as frequent incidents of robbery, armed attacks, and rampant roadblocks by bandits.

The Centers for Disease Control in Taiwan also urged travelers returning from Uganda since May 27 to report to quarantine stations for 21 days of self-health management.

“

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also reminds our citizens that if they have to travel to Uganda recently, they should carefully assess the potential risks.