Uganda is set to deploy over 40 medical experts to the Democratic Republic of Congo as part of efforts to strengthen the regional response to the ongoing Ebola outbreak that has continued to spread in parts of the neighboring country.
The deployment, announced by health authorities, is aimed at supporting case management, surveillance, laboratory services, infection prevention and control, as well as community engagement activities in the affected areas.
The move comes as DR Congo battles a worsening outbreak of the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, which has so far resulted in more than 600 confirmed cases and over 100 deaths, according to the latest figures from the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention
Uganda's support will also include the establishment of a 50-bed Ebola treatment unit and the continued operation of mobile laboratories in border areas to strengthen testing and diagnostic capacity.
Health officials say the deployment underscores Uganda's commitment to regional health security and reflects the country's experience in managing Ebola outbreaks. Over the years, Uganda has successfully responded to multiple Ebola outbreaks, earning recognition for its surveillance systems, rapid response mechanisms, and case management capabilities.
The decision to send health workers comes amid growing concern over cross-border transmission due to the close movement of people and goods between Uganda and the DRC.
Despite recording 19 confirmed Ebola cases linked largely to imported infections, Uganda has intensified screening at points of entry, contact tracing, and public awareness campaigns to prevent wider community transmission.
Officials say supporting the response in DR Congo is critical to protecting Uganda and the wider region, emphasizing that controlling the outbreak at its source remains one of the most effective strategies for preventing further spread.
The World Health Organization and the Africa CDC have repeatedly called for stronger regional collaboration, warning that sustained support and coordinated action will be essential in bringing the outbreak under control.
Health experts expected to be deployed will work alongside Congolese authorities, the World Health Organization, and other partners already engaged in the response.
The deployment is expected to begin this week as Uganda scales up its contribution to regional efforts aimed at containing one of the largest Ebola outbreaks in recent years.