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.
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