MoH Reactivates Ebola Taskforce To Conduct Surveillance In Zombo district

The Ministry of Health has reactivated the Ebola Taskforce in Zombo District following the confirmation of a fatal Ebola case, as Uganda heightens surveillance and response measures along the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Zombo District in northwestern Uganda borders Mahagi Territory in Ituri Province, DR Congo, an area believed to be the origin of the confirmed Ebola-related death reported in Uganda.

Health authorities say the reactivated taskforce brings together health workers, political leaders, and community vigilantes, and is chaired by the Zombo Resident District Commissioner.

The team is tasked with surveillance, screening, coordination, referral of suspected cases, and community sensitization on Ebola prevention measures.

Uganda declared an Ebola outbreak on May 15, 2026, prompting nationwide alertness and intensified contact tracing to prevent further spread.

During a taskforce meeting held on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at the Zombo District boardroom, District Health Officer Dr. Mark Bonney Bramali said screening services have been reactivated at the Padea One Stop Border Point.

He also noted that preparations are underway to establish an additional screening centre at the Alisi gazetted border point in Paidha Town Council to strengthen border monitoring.

Dr. Bramali acknowledged that controlling cross-border movement remains a major challenge, but emphasized that authorities are prioritizing strict screening at all entry points.

Zombo Resident District Commissioner Festus Ayikubua, who also chairs the taskforce, urged local leaders to intensify community engagement, noting that cross-border interaction remains high due to shared markets and services between Uganda and DR Congo.

According to Public Health Officer Ekuka Godfrey from the Ministry of Health’s Department of Integrated Epidemiology Surveillance and Public Health Emergency, standard operating procedures have been reactivated.

These include use of sanitizers, temperature screening, frequent handwashing, avoiding physical contact such as handshakes and hugging, and isolation of suspected cases.

He added that additional preventive measures have been introduced for public gatherings, markets, transport systems, religious services, and burial ceremonies as part of efforts to contain the outbreak.