KAMPALA, Uganda — Uganda has suspended public transport links to the Democratic Republic of Congo as authorities move to contain the spread of a deadly Ebola outbreak that has already crossed the border.
The restriction, announced Thursday, affects public transport services operating between Uganda and DR Congo, where a major outbreak of Ebola disease was declared in the eastern province of Ituri. The area borders Uganda and remains closely connected through trade, family movement and cross-border travel.
Ugandan authorities said the decision was taken after the country recorded Ebola cases linked to people who had travelled from DR Congo. According to reports, Uganda has confirmed two cases, including one death, both connected to cross-border movement from the Congolese side.
The outbreak has raised regional concern because it involves the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, a form of the virus for which there is currently no approved vaccine. The World Health Organization said the outbreak in DR Congo and Uganda had become serious enough to be declared a public health emergency of international concern. As of May 16, WHO reported eight laboratory-confirmed cases, 246 suspected cases and 80 suspected deaths in Ituri province alone, across health zones including Bunia, Rwampara and Mongbwalu.
Since then, the situation appears to have worsened. Reuters reported Thursday that DR Congo’s health ministry had recorded 61 confirmed cases, 670 suspected cases and 160 suspected deaths. A case was also confirmed in South Kivu province, far from the original epicentre, increasing fears that the outbreak may have circulated undetected for weeks.
Uganda’s transport suspension is aimed at reducing high-risk movement, especially among passengers using buses, taxis and other shared vehicles that regularly cross the border. Health officials are also expected to strengthen screening at border points and intensify contact tracing in districts near DR Congo.
Ebola spreads through direct contact with the blood or bodily fluids of infected people or contaminated materials. Symptoms can include fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness and unexplained bleeding. Health workers say early detection and isolation are crucial to stopping transmission.
The outbreak is already affecting public life beyond the border region. Uganda has postponed this year’s Uganda Martyrs’ Day commemorations, which had been scheduled for June 3, following consultations between President Yoweri Museveni, health officials and religious leaders.
Aid groups warn that insecurity in eastern DR Congo, public mistrust and limited resources could complicate the response. For Uganda, the challenge is to protect public health without completely disrupting trade and movement between two closely linked neighbours.
