Uganda and Rwanda Hold Joint Ebola Simulation Drill at Katuna Border

Uganda and Rwanda have reinforced their regional health collaboration by conducting a joint cross-border field simulation exercise at the Katuna/Gatuna border posts. Operating under the strategy of “Prepare Together and Respond Together,” the initiative focuses on enhancing coordination, information sharing, and rapid referral arrangements between the two nations to effectively handle potential public health emergencies.

The Ugandan delegation was led by the State Minister for Health in charge of Primary Health Care, Dr Charles Ayume, while the Rwandan delegation was represented by Prof Claude Mambo Muvunyi, the Director General of the Rwanda Biomedical Centre.

Speaking about the five-day exercise, Dr Ayume emphasized that the drill was designed to strengthen regional health systems rather than find faults. He noted that epidemics and pandemics cannot be managed in isolation, highlighting how vital it is for cross-border authorities to maintain direct communication lines, such as emails and WhatsApp contacts, to prevent dangerous delays during evacuations and sample collection.

The simulation also evaluated border management, community engagement, and infrastructure needs like thermal imaging equipment. Dr Ayume urged citizens to remain tolerant of necessary preventative measures, noting that some border closures—such as those involving parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo—remain essential to prevent disease spill-overs into Uganda.

Meanwhile, local authorities in the Kigezi sub-region remain on high alert. Recent reports from the area highlighted the interception of several foreign nationals attempting to cross through porous borders, underscoring the ongoing need for vigilance and community cooperation.

For more details, read the Daily Monitor report.