EBOLA: Government Breaks Silence on Reports of Plan to Close Schools and Impose Lockdown

KAMPALA — Growing public anxiety over Uganda’s Ebola situation has fueled widespread speculation that authorities could soon shut schools and reintroduce lockdown measures to contain the disease.

The rumors, which have circulated extensively on social media in recent days, emerged as health officials intensified surveillance and response efforts following Ebola cases linked to the ongoing outbreak in neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Parents, students and business operators have increasingly sought clarity from government officials amid fears that Uganda could adopt stringent containment measures similar to those implemented during previous disease outbreaks.

The concern comes as Uganda continues to monitor cases of the Ebola virus disease caused by the Bundibugyo strain, while authorities remain on high alert over the cross-border threat posed by the escalating outbreak in eastern DRC.

According to the Ministry of Health, Uganda had registered nine confirmed Ebola cases and one death by the end of May 2026. Most of the cases were reported in Kampala and Wakiso districts, with health officials maintaining that surveillance, contact tracing and screening operations remain ongoing.

Across the border, the situation remains considerably more severe. The DRC has recorded 282 confirmed Ebola cases and 42 deaths, according to figures cited by international health agencies and regional health authorities. More than 900 suspected cases and over 220 suspected deaths are also under investigation, underscoring the magnitude of the outbreak.

Against this backdrop, the government has now moved to directly address the growing speculation.

In a statement issued on June 1, 2026, the government-run Uganda Media Centre dismissed claims that schools were being closed or that lockdown measures had been approved.

“No schools have been closed. No districts are under lockdown,” the statement reads.

The statement, signed by Uganda Media Centre Executive Director Alan Kasujja, further emphasized that normal activities across the country should continue uninterrupted.

“Uganda: Business as usual,” the statement said.

The communication marks the government’s first formal response to reports suggesting that authorities were considering sweeping restrictions in response to the Ebola outbreak.

Health officials have consistently maintained that Uganda’s response is being guided by scientific assessment and established public health protocols. While surveillance and prevention measures have been strengthened, authorities have not announced any plans to close educational institutions or restrict movement in any part of the country.

The latest clarification is expected to reassure parents, learners and businesses as the country continues to monitor the evolving Ebola situation while intensifying efforts to prevent further transmission.

You can read the SOPs given to schools after Ebola cases were reported to avoid being closed Here.