Ebola: Uganda deploys about 50 experts to DRC

In response to the escalating Ebola epidemic, Uganda is deploying around 50 health experts to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to bolster containment efforts. This deployment is part of a strengthened health cooperation agreement between the two nations.

Visiting Bunia on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, the Ugandan Minister of Health announced the deployment of these experts, along with logistical support and the establishment of treatment centers in border regions. This initiative aims to enhance the DRC's response capabilities and prevent further spread of the virus.

Minister Chris Baryomunsi emphasized the critical importance of early detection and treatment. He stated, "Ebola is a very dangerous disease. The earlier the care, the higher the chances of recovery." He noted Uganda's success in managing cases, with only two deaths among twenty confirmed cases, attributing this to rapid care.

Baryomunsi also urged the Congolese population to consult health facilities immediately upon experiencing any symptoms. He stressed that timely medical intervention significantly increases survival rates. The minister indicated that the full reopening of borders would depend on the evolving health situation, though passages for essential goods, health workers, and security personnel remain open.

Furthermore, the minister called on media outlets to disseminate reliable information to combat misinformation and encourage adherence to prevention measures. This cross-border collaboration, formalized through a memorandum of understanding, includes sharing epidemiological data and joint health surveillance at border posts.

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Ebola is a very dangerous disease. The earlier the care, the higher the chances of recovery. In Uganda, we have registered twenty cases confirmed and only two deaths. This shows that rapid care saves lives.