The Ministry of Internal Affairs, through its Immigration Office in Mbale, has issued a stern warning to foreign nationals residing and studying in the Elgon region to ensure they have proper documentation or face legal consequences. Â
The caution was delivered during a sensitisation meeting led by Assistant Commissioner for Inspection and Compliance, Mr. Kato Kaahwa, alongside security officials from Mbale City and the greater Elgon region. The gathering primarily targeted international students, investors, and refugees—many from the Somali community—who were reminded of the importance of legal stay in Uganda. Â
During the meeting, some international students raised concerns about language barriers, as many only speak Arabic, while Uganda is an English-speaking country. They requested additional support to ease communication. Â
In response, Mbale Regional Immigration Head, Madam Fatuma Namutebi, encouraged foreign students to learn basic English but assured them that translators are often provided when needed. She emphasised the need for compliance with immigration laws to avoid disruptions in their studies. Â
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A group of Indian nationals, who have lived in Uganda for over 10 years, appealed to the government to allow them to apply for Ugandan citizenship. They explained that they had sold all their assets in India and now consider Uganda their permanent home. Â
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Mr. Kato Kaahwa highlighted the rising number of illegal entry points in the Elgon region, which has led to an influx of undocumented foreigners. He urged all immigrants to regularise their status to avoid arrest and deportation. Â
Adding to the concerns, Deputy RCC Mr. Were Yayaha noted that many undocumented Somali nationals are hiding in Mbale, raising security concerns. Authorities are working to identify and process such individuals. Â
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Mr. Kato also issued a strong warning to foreigners, advising them not to engage in Ugandan politics. "You are guests in this country; involving yourselves in political matters is against the law," he stated. Â
The meeting concluded with foreign nationals expressing gratitude for the peace and hospitality Uganda offers, while authorities reiterated their commitment to enforcing immigration laws for national security. Â
The caution was delivered during a sensitisation meeting led by Assistant Commissioner for Inspection and Compliance, Mr. Kato Kaahwa, alongside security officials from Mbale City and the greater Elgon region. The gathering primarily targeted international students, investors, and refugees—many from the Somali community—who were reminded of the importance of legal stay in Uganda. Â
During the meeting, some international students raised concerns about language barriers, as many only speak Arabic, while Uganda is an English-speaking country. They requested additional support to ease communication. Â
In response, Mbale Regional Immigration Head, Madam Fatuma Namutebi, encouraged foreign students to learn basic English but assured them that translators are often provided when needed. She emphasised the need for compliance with immigration laws to avoid disruptions in their studies. Â
Â
A group of Indian nationals, who have lived in Uganda for over 10 years, appealed to the government to allow them to apply for Ugandan citizenship. They explained that they had sold all their assets in India and now consider Uganda their permanent home. Â
Â
Mr. Kato Kaahwa highlighted the rising number of illegal entry points in the Elgon region, which has led to an influx of undocumented foreigners. He urged all immigrants to regularise their status to avoid arrest and deportation. Â
Adding to the concerns, Deputy RCC Mr. Were Yayaha noted that many undocumented Somali nationals are hiding in Mbale, raising security concerns. Authorities are working to identify and process such individuals. Â
 Â
Mr. Kato also issued a strong warning to foreigners, advising them not to engage in Ugandan politics. "You are guests in this country; involving yourselves in political matters is against the law," he stated. Â
The meeting concluded with foreign nationals expressing gratitude for the peace and hospitality Uganda offers, while authorities reiterated their commitment to enforcing immigration laws for national security. Â
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