By Karim Were
President Yoweri Museveni is expected to address Ugandans tonight as the government intensifies efforts to contain the ongoing Ebola outbreak and reassure the public about the country’s preparedness.
The nationwide address, scheduled for 8:00 pm on Wednesday, June 10, comes at a time when health authorities are implementing enhanced surveillance, border screening, contact tracing, and treatment measures aimed at preventing further spread of the disease.
Government sources say the President will provide an update on Uganda’s response strategy, public safety measures, and the country’s readiness to manage additional cases while maintaining normal economic and social activities.
Uganda has so far registered 19 confirmed Ebola cases linked to the current outbreak. Health officials report that 14 of the cases involve members of a family that crossed into Uganda from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), while the remaining five cases involve Ugandans, including four health workers who came into contact with infected patients.
Health authorities have emphasized that rapid detection, isolation of patients, and intensive contact tracing remain central to controlling the outbreak, particularly because the Bundibugyo strain currently has no licensed vaccine or approved specific treatment.
The government has already taken precautionary measures, including enhanced screening at border points, health facilities, and major public events. Some national activities have been scaled down, while authorities continue to monitor high-risk areas and strengthen emergency response systems.
International health agencies have commended Uganda’s efforts while urging continued vigilance. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) have mobilized additional resources to support containment efforts across the region.
The outbreak has also prompted increased health screening and travel measures in several countries, reflecting growing concern about cross-border transmission. Despite these developments, President Museveni has repeatedly assured citizens that Uganda’s health system remains capable of managing the situation without imposing nationwide lockdowns.
Tonight’s address is expected to provide clarity on public health guidelines, travel measures, school operations, public gatherings, and the government’s next steps in containing the outbreak.
As the country awaits the President’s remarks, health officials continue to encourage the public to remain calm, cooperate with health workers, report suspected cases promptly, and follow recommended preventive measures.
