Eronda
JF-Expert Member
- Dec 16, 2025
- 850
- 484
Permanent Secretary, Dr Diana Atwine.
Uganda’s Ministry of Health has announced a temporary closure of the country’s border with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in response to the ongoing Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak in the neighboring country and associated cross-border transmission risks.
The decision, endorsed by the National Task Force on Ebola Response chaired by H.E. the Vice President of Uganda, takes immediate effect. It aims to mitigate the heightened risk of further spread into Uganda due to frequent population movements.
Key Measures Announced
Border Closure with Exceptions: Only authorized Ebola response teams, humanitarian operations, food and cargo transportation, and essential security personnel will be permitted to cross. All authorized entrants will undergo strict health screening, locator form completion, documentation, and continuous monitoring at ports of entry in line with Ministry of Health protocols.Mandatory Isolation: Any individual returning from the DRC into Uganda must undergo 21 days of mandatory self-isolation under the supervision of the Ministry of Health and district surveillance teams.
Education Sector: Schools in border districts will remain open but must adhere strictly to Ministry of Health Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). School authorities are required to identify students who have recently returned from the DRC and monitor their temperatures daily for 21 days. Designated health facilities in border districts will accommodate and assess any learners who develop symptoms such as fever
Enforcement and Public Awareness: Resident District Commissioners and Resident City Commissioners have been directed to ensure full implementation and enforcement of all Ebola prevention and control guidelines. Media houses are required to dedicate at least 30 minutes of prime-time programming daily to public education on Ebola prevention, detection, and reporting.
