Ebola: Burundi president urges African states not to close borders with DRC and Uganda

Burundi's President and current chair of the African Union, Évariste Ndayishimiye, has appealed to African nations to resist closing their borders with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda amid the ongoing Ebola outbreak. Speaking during an official visit to the DRC, Ndayishimiye stressed the critical need for international solidarity in combating the epidemic.

"We must show solidarity with the DRC and Uganda," Ndayishimiye stated, emphasizing that border closures would hinder efforts to control the spread of the virus and isolate affected communities. He urged the international community, particularly neighboring African countries, to support the two nations in their fight against Ebola rather than isolating them.

The president's call highlights the interconnectedness of the region and the potential consequences of isolationist policies during a health crisis. By advocating against border closures, Ndayishimiye aims to facilitate coordinated responses, ensure the unimpeded flow of essential resources, and prevent further stigmatization of the affected countries. His position as AU chair lends significant weight to this plea for regional cooperation.

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We must show solidarity with the DRC and Uganda.