PRESIDENT MUSEVENI REAFFIRMS UGANDA’S SUPPORT TO DRC IN REGIONAL EBOLA RESPONSE

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment
to supporting the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in combating the
ongoing Ebola outbreak, emphasizing regional cooperation, early detection,
and timely treatment as critical measures in containing the disease.

The President made the remarks this evening at State House, Entebbe
while meeting Dr. Kamba Mulanda Samuel Roger, the Minister of Public
Health, Hygiene and Social Welfare of the Democratic Republic of Congo,
who delivered a special message from the DRC Government.

During the meeting, President Museveni noted that Uganda had
successfully contained its recent Ebola cases through early detection,
effective treatment, and strict public health measures.

He explained that while a number of health workers were initially infected before the disease
was identified, no further local transmission occurred after the necessary
preventive measures were implemented.

The President said Uganda registered both Congolese and Ugandan Ebola
patients, with the overwhelming majority recovering after receiving
treatment. He observed that the few fatalities involved patients who sought
medical attention late.

President Museveni explained that Uganda could not close its border with
the Democratic Republic of Congo because of the importance of cross-
border trade and the close ties between the people of the two neighbouring
countries. Instead, the Government strengthened screening and

surveillance at border entry points, particularly for cargo transport, to
safeguard public health while ensuring the continued movement of
essential goods.

To strengthen the regional response, President Museveni proposed the
establishment of Ebola treatment centres inside eastern Democratic
Republic of Congo, in partnership with the Congolese Government.

He said such facilities would enable patients to receive timely treatment closer to their communities, reduce the movement of infected persons across the
border, and help contain the spread of the disease.

The President reiterated Uganda’s readiness to work closely with the DRC
by providing treatment, technical expertise, and other necessary support to
help control the outbreak.

“We shall do everything within our means to help because the people of the
Democratic Republic of Congo are our brothers and sisters,” President
Museveni said.

The meeting underscored the strong cooperation between Uganda and the
Democratic Republic of Congo in addressing cross-border public health
challenges and reaffirmed the shared commitment of both countries to
protecting the health and well-being of their people through coordinated
regional action.

The meeting was also attended by Minister of Health, Dr. Chris
Baryomunsi, The Permanent Secretary- Ministry of Health, Dr. Diana
Atwine, The Inspector General of Police, Abas Byakagaba and his team,
Commander UPDF Land Forces, Lt Gen. Kayanja Muhanga, among other
senior leaders.