The Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) has moved to reassure tourists, stakeholders and the international community that Uganda remains safe for travel despite recent concerns linked to Ebola cases originating from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
In a statement issued on May 18, 2026, UTB confirmed that Uganda had recorded two isolated imported Ebola cases involving Congolese nationals who entered the country from the DRC.
Authorities said one of the patients died and was repatriated, while the second is receiving treatment under the supervision of the Ministry of Health.
Officials stressed that there is no evidence of local transmission or community spread of the virus within Uganda.
“The situation is fully under control, with zero local infections recorded,” the statement said, adding that surveillance systems remain active across the country.
The Ministry of Health continues to enforce preventive measures, including screening at points of entry, contact tracing and rapid response interventions aimed at preventing any potential spread.
Uganda has previously been recognised for its experience in managing Ebola outbreaks, with health authorities saying past responses have strengthened the country’s preparedness and emergency response capacity.
Despite the reported cases, tourism activities across the country remain uninterrupted, with national parks, hotels, conference facilities and transport services operating normally.
Tourists and industry stakeholders have, however, been encouraged to maintain basic hygiene practices such as regular handwashing and use of sanitizers as a precaution.
The Uganda Tourism Board reiterated its assurance that the country remains open and safe for visitors.
“Uganda is safe, open, and ready to receive visitors for tourism, business, and investment,” the statement added.
Authorities say the reassurance is part of ongoing efforts to maintain confidence in Uganda’s tourism sector as the country continues to position itself as a key global travel and investment destination.
