The Trump administration is planning a new travel ban that could stop people from several African countries from entering the U.S. This is part of a bigger plan to make immigration rules stricter and improve security checks. The decision follows an order signed by President Donald Trump on January 20, asking U.S. officials to list countries with weak security systems. By March 21, these officials must recommend which countries should face travel bans. The goal is to block or limit travel from places that do not meet U.S. security standards.
Some African countries could be banned completely, including Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and South Sudan. These nations have been flagged for poor security checks, and Libya and Somalia were already banned in a previous order in 2018. Eritrea and South Sudan could face partial bans, meaning some types of visas may still be allowed. Other countries, like Angola, Cameroon, Chad, DR Congo, and Sierra Leone, could also be affected. Their governments have 60 days to fix security issues or face travel restrictions.
Uganda is not on the list, but the ban could still affect the region in different ways. Travel and trade between Uganda and the U.S. may be impacted if neighboring countries face restrictions. The Ugandan government is already adjusting to Trump’s recent foreign aid cuts by looking for new international partners. If more African countries are blocked, tourism and business in the region could slow down. Many Ugandans who travel for studies, work, or family visits are watching closely to see how this unfolds.
The list of affected countries is not final, and changes could be made before a decision is announced. The U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, still has to approve the recommendations. Many African leaders are waiting to see if their countries will be included and if they can negotiate to avoid restrictions. If the ban goes through, it could make travel between Africa and the U.S. more difficult. The final decision will show how the Trump administration plans to handle its relationship with African nations.
