39 Congolese Nationals Repatriated As Uganda Tightens Ebola Border Surveillance

Ugandan authorities have repatriated 39 Congolese nationals who crossed into the country through unauthorized entry points since the beginning of June. This action is part of a broader government effort to strengthen measures against the importation of Ebola cases from the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

In the latest incident, security personnel intercepted five Congolese nationals at a checkpoint in Pakwach. They were traveling towards Kampala in a private vehicle, despite existing border restrictions implemented due to the Ebola outbreak in eastern DRC. Officials confirmed that all individuals apprehended for illegal entry are subjected to mandatory health screenings.

Dr. Daniel Kyabayinze, Director of Public Health at the Ministry of Health, emphasized that robust border surveillance is crucial for Uganda's Ebola preparedness, especially in areas sharing porous borders with the DRC. Individuals cleared by health screenings are repatriated, while those exhibiting Ebola-like symptoms are directed to specialized treatment and isolation centers for further evaluation and care. The DRC is currently managing an escalating outbreak of the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, prompting heightened screening and surveillance across neighboring countries at all border crossings.

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border surveillance remains a key pillar of Uganda's Ebola preparedness strategy, particularly in regions sharing porous borders with the DRC.