Health 21 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda Implements Border Travel Restrictions and Bans Mass Gatherings to Combat Ebola Threat From DRC
Uganda has enacted emergency measures, including suspending flights and halting public transport across the DRC border, alongside a ban on large gatherings, to prevent the spread of Ebola. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/uganda-halts-drc-border-travel-mass-gatherings-to-curb-ebola-threat-5468306
In response to a recent Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and detected cases within its own borders, Uganda has implemented a series of stringent temporary measures. These actions aim to curb potential cross-border transmission of the virus.
Following a National Taskforce meeting chaired by Vice President Jessica Alupo, the government announced the suspension of all direct flights between Uganda and the DRC, effective within 48 hours. Public passenger transport and ferry services across the River Semuliki are also halted for the next four weeks. However, the Ministry of Health has assured that the movement of cargo and essential goods will not be affected.
Domestically, high-risk border areas will see intensified restrictions. Weekly markets and cultural events that draw large crowds in districts bordering the DRC have been temporarily suspended. The Ministry of Health emphasized that these are necessary, short-term measures to protect the public while bolstering the nation’s health response infrastructure.
“These measures are designed to minimize cross-border transmission as our medical teams intensify surveillance, contact tracing, and overall emergency preparedness efforts,” stated the Ministry. Health authorities will continue to monitor the border situation to advise on when these restrictions can be safely lifted.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)