Authorities in Kanungu District have indefinitely suspended weekly markets, bars, discos, and unauthorised public gatherings as part of measures to prevent the spread of the Ebola virus in the border district.
The decision was reached on Thursday by the Kanungu District Task Force and the district security committee following a meeting chaired by the Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Mr Ambrose Mwesigye Amanyire.
Kanungu, one of the districts bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), remains on high alert amid growing concerns over possible cross-border transmission of Ebola.
District leaders say strict surveillance and rapid-response mechanisms have been intensified at all high-risk border entry points.
Mr Amanyire said the restrictions were introduced after security and health officials identified gaps in border safety during the task force meeting.
‘We have suspended all weekly markets in the district with immediate effect. Daily markets and public institutions must enforce handwashing and screening measures under strict security monitoring,’ Mr Amanyire said.
‘All bars and disco activities are also hereby suspended as part of our efforts to safeguard the community from the Ebola threat,’ he added.
The RDC further revealed that border access has been significantly restricted, with only essential travellers allowed to cross under strict health protocols.
‘Only cargo vehicles with drivers and turn-men, cargo boda bodas, registered refugees, and security personnel will be allowed to cross, subject to strict health screening standard operating procedures,’ he explained.
The district task force also announced a ban on unauthorised gatherings, including meetings, rallies, and social events, warning residents against non-compliance.
In addition, all institutions, banks, and business premises have been directed to install thermo guns and handwashing facilities at entry points to ensure mandatory screening of all visitors.
Authorities said burials in the district must strictly follow safe burial protocols under the supervision of health and security personnel to minimise the risk of infection.
‘Public transport operations will also face increased monitoring to ensure compliance with Ebola prevention guidelines,’ Mr Amanyire said.
The district has also intensified public awareness campaigns through radio broadcasts and community sensitisation programs to educate residents about Ebola prevention and response.
He rallied residents, business owners, and local leaders to cooperate fully with the directives and promptly report suspected Ebola symptoms, including fever, bleeding, and vomiting, to the nearest health facility.
‘As a gateway district bordering the DRC, Kanungu carries a major responsibility in preventing cross-border transmission of Ebola. We call upon everyone to remain vigilant and comply with the measures put in place,’ Mr Amanyire said.
On Friday, the Ministry of Health of Uganda reported two new cases of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in Kampala, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Uganda to nine, including one death.