“Queen Elizabeth National Park: A tragic incident shakes Uganda”
In a tragic event that shocked Uganda, a British and South African tourist couple, along with their Ugandan guide, were killed in an armed attack on Tuesday evening in the famous Queen Elizabeth National Park. Local authorities suspect the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a Ugandan Islamist group that has pledged allegiance to Islamic State and has operated for years from the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo.
The shocking images of the bodies of the tourists and their guide found near their charred vehicle were widely distributed on social networks. The couple, on their honeymoon, had chosen to visit Uganda through local travel agency Gorillas and Wildlife Safaris.
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni condemned the terrorist attack in a tweet, expressing sadness for the newly married couple who were looking to enjoy their honeymoon by exploring the natural wonders of Uganda.
Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack, sparking widespread concern over escalating violence in the region. The ADF has committed numerous acts of violence in recent decades, with its main base located in Virunga National Park, neighboring Queen Elizabeth Park. In 2019, the ADF pledged allegiance to the Islamic State, leading to a series of attacks claimed by the terrorist group.
Ugandan police have said they will actively pursue ADF rebels and will not allow such acts of violence to go unpunished. However, it is obvious that the ADF retains a nuisance capacity and that their targets are not chosen at random. Earlier this week, President Museveni had already warned of possible terrorist acts, after an ADF plot targeting two churches was foiled.
This tragic event once again raises the question of the safety of tourists in Uganda’s national parks and the need to strengthen protection measures. The scale of this attack reveals the vulnerability of visitors to this kind of violence, as Uganda seeks to promote ecotourism as a source of economic development.
It is essential that authorities step up efforts to ensure the safety of tourists and strengthen cooperation with neighboring countries to combat terrorist groups. Uganda has a unique natural wealth that attracts thousands of visitors each year, but visitors must be able to explore these wonders in peace and confidence.
It is imperative to step up security measures in national parks and put in place effective monitoring arrangements to prevent such incidents. Tourists should also be aware of potential risks and follow safety instructions given by local authorities.
In this time of mourning and reflection, it is important to remember that despite this tragic incident, Uganda continues to be a country rich in natural beauty and hospitality. Let us not forget the many other travelers who visited Uganda safely and had unforgettable experiences.