Uganda’s Ebola response has entered a stabilization phase, with health authorities reporting hardly any new cases, improved patient recovery, strengthened surveillance systems and expanded international support even as officials warn that continued cross-border risks, public fear and economic disruptions require sustained vigilance.
According to the Ministry of Health, Uganda had reported 20 confirmed cases including two deaths as of June 23. The transmission is largely linked to cross-border movement from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to Uganda.
However, the transmission appears to be contained 14 patients recovering from the disease. What is not so clear is how soon the economy will recover from this knock-on effect from the disease, which has scared away tourists who remain a critical source of foreign exchange.
International visitors cancelled holidays, conferences were postponed and hotel bookings dropped sharply as the fear of infection spread. Many tourists still avoid travelling to Uganda and neighbouring countries, while others remained cautious, staying away due to lingering fears that the virus could spread beyond reported hotspots.
As a result, hotels, tour operators, transport companies and tourist attractions have recorded reduced customer flow over the last couple of weeks. Trade and agriculture have also been disrupted.
Farmers have struggled to access markets, while traders face reduced customer turnout as many people avoid crowded places such as markets and trading centers due to fear of infection. In several communities, informal businesses have recorded lower income as customers limit physical interaction slowing down daily economic activity and reducing household earnings.
Authorities acknowledge that while movement and business remain open, public fear continues to influence economic behaviour and recovery in some sectors. Authorities further linked public health measures to ongoing national activities, including sports gatherings such as the football World Cup tournament.
The ministry of Health advised that such gatherings are not banned but must be conducted with caution, urging the public to avoid hugging, handshakes and sharing drinks, while maintaining strict hygiene practices such as handwashing and use of sanitizers.
According to the Uganda Tourism Board, Uganda remains safe for tourism despite the outbreak. The board said only a small number of cases were linked to cross-border movement from the DRC and confirmed that tourism facilities, parks, and services remain fully operational.
It added that visitors are encouraged to maintain hygiene practices and comply with ministry of Health guidelines while continuing to travel and invest in the country.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni during his state of the nation address, said Ebola remains a highly aggressive disease but it can be controlled if the public follows health guidelines strictly.
“It’s an aggressive disease but it’s not difficult to fight,” he said, warning against careless behaviour that fuels transmission.