Uganda Closes Ishasha-Kyeshero Border Amid Ebola Outbreak in DRC

In response to the escalating Ebola outbreak in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Ugandan authorities have made the decisive move to close the Ishasha and Kyeshero border posts. This closure affects the border between Kanungu District in Uganda and the DRC.

Kanungu Resident District Commissioner, Ambrose Amanyire Mwesigye, who also chairs the district’s Ebola Taskforce, stated that the decision was made to minimize the risk of the deadly disease crossing into Uganda. The closure aims to control the movement of people and goods that could potentially carry the virus.

“We have closed the Ishasha and Kyeshero border posts with the Democratic Republic of Congo because of the Ebola outbreak in the eastern part of that Country,” Mr. Mwesigye confirmed. He emphasized that while cross-border trade and interactions are significant, the health and safety of the population are paramount.

Security along the porous borders has been intensified, with increased monitoring of interactions between communities on both sides. Meanwhile, officials in Kisoro District are also evaluating similar measures for their border crossings with the DRC, including Busanza-Kitagoma and Bunagana, to safeguard their residents.

Kisoro District Health Officer, Dr. Bosco Muhangi, confirmed that health alerts have been disseminated through social media and to village health teams, urging vigilance in border communities. Local leaders are also actively educating the public about Ebola’s transmission methods.

The Mayor for Mupaka Town Council in Kisoro District has advised Ugandans who travel to the DRC for agricultural activities to exercise extreme caution. Reports also indicate that the M23 leadership has closed the Kitagoma-Busanza border post on the DRC side to help contain the spread of the virus.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)