The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has publicly lashed out at a new U.S. policy restricting Ugandans who travel to give birth in America, a practice known as “birth tourism.”
In a fiery post on X (formerly Twitter) late Tuesday night, Gen Muhoozi rejected the restrictions outright, invoking divine authority to condemn the measures:
“I REJECT this Decision in the NAME of JESUS CHRIST OUR GOD!!! Nobody has the right to stop Ugandans to produce their children ANYWHERE on this EARTH!!! NOBODY!!!”
The CDF’s statement followed growing outrage over an announcement by the U.S. Mission in Uganda, which declared that consular officers will deny visas to applicants suspected of planning to deliver children in the United States to automatically obtain U.S. citizenship for them.
Under the policy framework first rolled out by the Trump administration, the U.S. State Department amended visa regulations to explicitly forbid “birth tourism.”
Consular officers are required to presume that any pregnant applicant seeking a B-1/B-2 tourist visa is traveling for childbirth unless they demonstrate a “legitimate medical need” or another valid reason.
The U.S. Mission in Uganda reiterated that the practice drains American public resources, noting that many Ugandan parents rely on government-subsidized hospitals to cover delivery costs.
“These costs are passed on to the American taxpayer,” the Mission posted on X, warning that offenders may be barred from renewing visas or face long-term ineligibility.
The crackdown has reignited debate about the ethics and legality of denying Ugandan families access to U.S. hospitals. Critics argue that the move disproportionately targets African travelers, while supporters say it closes loopholes that undermine immigration integrity.
Gen Muhoozi, known for his blunt social media commentary, framed the ban as an attack on Ugandan dignity and personal freedom. His post quickly attracted thousands of reactions, with supporters applauding his defiance and others urging diplomatic dialogue instead of confrontation.
As Washington continues tightening travel rules and vetting criteria, Ugandan travelers planning to deliver in America are likely to face stricter scrutiny and possible visa denials.