Uganda has announced sweeping emergency measures along its western frontier following renewed Ebola concerns, with Chief of Defence Forces General Muhoozi Kainerugaba ordering an immediate closure of the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
In a directive issued on Thursday, Muhoozi said all movement between Uganda and the DRC had been halted indefinitely as authorities respond to the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the neighbouring country.
“The security forces are sealing our entire border with the DRC until further notice. No movement of people between the two countries is permitted,” he said, warning that attempts to defy the order would pose serious health risks.
The directive comes amid confirmed Ebola cases linked to cross-border transmission, with health authorities indicating that some infections detected in Uganda are associated with travel from the DRC.
The outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain of the virus, which currently has no approved vaccine, increasing the urgency of containment efforts.
Muhoozi further ordered immediate nationwide screening measures, directing that all individuals entering Uganda must undergo mandatory temperature checks.
“All people entering the country MUST have their temperatures taken! This must start immediately!” he stated.
The military-led intervention signals a shift to stricter enforcement in support of public health measures, as Uganda moves to prevent further spread of the virus.
Security agencies are expected to work alongside health officials in enforcing the restrictions, particularly in porous border areas that have historically been difficult to monitor.
Health experts have consistently warned that cross-border movement remains one of the biggest risks in managing Ebola outbreaks in the region.
Uganda and the DRC share extensive social and economic ties, with frequent movement of traders, families and transporters.