Leaders from the Rwenzori Region have reassured the public and the international community that the area remains safe and free from Ebola, urging tourists and athletes to participate in the upcoming Rwenzori Marathon without fear.
The reassurance follows growing concerns and misinformation linking Kasese District and the wider Rwenzori Region to recent Ebola cases reported elsewhere in Uganda. Leaders say the false reports have negatively affected tourism, resulting in cancellations at hotels and other hospitality facilities.
Speaking during a joint press conference, Members of Parliament from the region dismissed claims that Kasese District is affected by Ebola, emphasizing that there are currently no active cases in the district.
The leaders, led by Bunyaruguru County MP Benjamin Kabyanga Cardet, Kasese District Woman MP Sarah Ithungu Masereka, and Busongora South MP David Mulindwa Isimbwa, said the region is secure and ready to host thousands of visitors expected for the fifth edition of the Rwenzori Marathon scheduled for August 22, 2026.
Cardet explained that the Ebola cases recently reported in Uganda were imported from the Democratic Republic of Congo and were contained by health authorities.
"Kasese and the entire Rwenzori Region are Ebola-free. We want to assure all visitors, tourists and marathon participants that it is safe to come to our region. Unfortunately, misinformation has caused unnecessary fear and led to cancellations in hotels and tourism facilities," Cardet said.
He noted that tourism, a major contributor to the local economy, has suffered losses due to inaccurate reports associating the region with the Ebola outbreak.
Busongora South MP David Mulindwa Isimbwa said the leaders found it necessary to address health and security concerns after reports circulating on social media created uncertainty among potential visitors and marathon participants.
He said security agencies have strengthened coordination to ensure the safety of all visitors attending the marathon and other tourism activities in the region.
"We want the public and our international guests to know that security remains stable. All relevant government agencies are working together to ensure a safe and successful Rwenzori Marathon," Mulindwa said.
Kasese District Woman MP Sarah Ithungu Masereka urged government authorities not to suspend tourism events because of misinformation. Instead, she called for stronger collaboration between the Ministry of Health and event organizers to maintain appropriate health and safety measures.
"We urge government not to cancel or halt tourism events. The Ministry of Health should continue working with organizers and communities to ensure safety while allowing economic activities and tourism to continue," Masereka said.
The legislators expressed support for marathon founder and organizer Amos Wekesa, praising the event for promoting Uganda’s tourism potential on the international stage.
According to the leaders, participants from more than 25 countries have already registered for the marathon, reflecting its growing global appeal.
Now in its fifth edition, the Rwenzori Marathon has become one of Uganda’s leading sports tourism events, attracting runners, tourists and adventure enthusiasts from around the world. The event showcases the scenic beauty of the Rwenzori region while supporting local businesses, hospitality facilities and community livelihoods.
The leaders said they remain committed to working with health, security and tourism authorities to ensure the August 22 event is conducted successfully and continues to strengthen the region’s reputation as a safe and attractive tourism destination.