Ugandan Sanctions Likely to Remain Despite Trump's Return, Analysts Say

President of the United States Donald Trump speaking with attendees at an Arizona for Trump rally at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona (file photo).
20 January 2025

Sanctions are usually tied to specific actions, and reversing them would require significant evidence of reform

Donald Trump's second term as President of the United States has reignited discussions about the potential lifting of sanctions imposed on Ugandan officials during President Biden's administration.

However, analysts caution that any significant policy shift remains uncertain.

Under Biden's leadership, high-profile Ugandan figures faced sanctions for human rights abuses and corruption. Among those targeted were Speaker of Parliament Anita Annette Among and Lt. Gen. Peter Elwelu, implicated in extrajudicial killings.

Dr. Abaho Anne, a foreign policy expert, highlights that while a new administration often reexamines its predecessor's policies, lifting such sanctions is far from guaranteed.

"Sanctions are usually tied to specific actions, and reversing them would require significant evidence of reform," Dr. Abaho explained.

She further noted that Trump's foreign policy record suggests a focus on transactional relationships, but not necessarily a rollback of sanctions tied to governance and human rights issues.

Legislator Muwanga Kivumbi added that sanctions on Ugandan officials were part of a broader effort to address systemic issues. "These measures sent a strong message about accountability," he said.

While African leaders may hope for improved relations under Trump, experts argue that the path to lifting sanctions requires Uganda to demonstrate tangible progress in addressing the concerns that led to their imposition. Until then, the sanctions are likely to remain a pivotal issue in U.S.-Uganda relations.

AllAfrica publishes around 500 reports a day from more than 110 news organizations and over 500 other institutions and individuals, representing a diversity of positions on every topic. We publish news and views ranging from vigorous opponents of governments to government publications and spokespersons. Publishers named above each report are responsible for their own content, which AllAfrica does not have the legal right to edit or correct.

Articles and commentaries that identify allAfrica.com as the publisher are produced or commissioned by AllAfrica. To address comments or complaints, please Contact us.