Uganda has renewed its push against what it describes as unfair travel restrictions imposed by some countries following the current Ebola situation, insisting that its response measures remain among the strongest in the region.
During a meeting convened by the Ministry of Health, officials from the Civil Aviation Authority, ambassadors and airline operators serving Uganda discussed the impact of the restrictions on travel, trade and international confidence.
Health Minister Chris Baryomunsi was accompanied by PS Dr Diana Atwine.
In her remarks, Dr Atwine, argued that Uganda has maintained transparency throughout the outbreak, sharing information promptly and implementing robust surveillance, screening and response measures.
She noted that these efforts have consistently prevented the exportation of Ebola cases beyond Uganda’s borders.
The Ministry of Health emphasized that while countries have a right to remain vigilant, blanket travel restrictions are not proportionate to the actual public health risk and could discourage countries from openly reporting disease outbreaks in the future.
Officials also thanked countries and airline operators that have kept their borders and routes open, saying the decision reflects confidence in Uganda’s evidence-based public health response.
The meeting comes amid ongoing efforts by Uganda to contain the outbreak while maintaining international cooperation and public confidence in the country’s health systems.
Health authorities continue to urge partners to rely on scientific evidence and risk assessments rather than broad travel restrictions, arguing that collaboration remains the most effective tool in preventing and controlling the spread of Ebola.
