President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is expected to address Ugandans this evening as the country continues to monitor and respond to the ongoing Ebola outbreak that has raised concern across the region.
The President announced the planned national address through his social media platforms, calling on citizens to follow the broadcast scheduled for 8:00 PM.
“Fellow Ugandans, especially the Bazzukulu. [Today, Wednesday, June 10, 2026] evening at 8pm, I will address the country on the Ebola situation in Uganda. Please tune in,” Museveni said in a message posted on X.
His announcement comes at a time when health authorities remain on high alert following the spread of the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus from neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) into Uganda.
Uganda’s Ebola Situation
Health officials report that Uganda has so far registered 19 confirmed Ebola infections linked to the current outbreak. The cases include individuals who crossed into the country from the DRC as well as a number of secondary infections among close contacts.
Authorities have confirmed two deaths among the infected patients, while one additional probable Ebola-related death is under investigation. At least five patients have recovered and been discharged.
Most of the confirmed cases have been recorded in Kampala and Wakiso districts. According to health experts, investigations indicate that all known infections can be traced to travellers arriving from the DRC or individuals who had direct contact with them.
Officials maintain that there is currently no evidence of widespread community transmission within Uganda.
Outbreak Originated in Eastern DRC
The outbreak was first detected in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo in May this year. Since then, hundreds of infections and dozens of deaths have been reported in affected areas, particularly in provinces facing insecurity and armed conflict.
Health responders have faced significant challenges accessing some communities because of ongoing instability, making containment efforts more difficult.
The growing regional threat prompted the World Health Organization (WHO) to classify the outbreak as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern in May, triggering heightened international support and coordination.
Government Steps Up Response
Uganda has activated several emergency response measures aimed at preventing further spread of the disease.
Authorities have intensified surveillance at border points, strengthened screening procedures for travellers, expanded contact tracing operations and established isolation facilities for suspected and confirmed cases.
President Museveni has repeatedly urged the public to remain calm, insisting that Uganda has the experience and capacity needed to manage Ebola outbreaks effectively.
Among the major decisions taken by the government was the postponement of the 2026 Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations. Officials said the move was necessary to reduce the risk posed by large crowds, particularly pilgrims travelling from areas affected by the outbreak in eastern DRC.
The President has also held discussions with international and regional health partners, including WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, as efforts continue to strengthen cooperation between Uganda and neighbouring countries.
Government officials have emphasized that response measures are being implemented in a targeted manner to protect public health while allowing economic activity and essential services to continue.
Public Advised to Remain Vigilant
Health authorities continue to encourage members of the public to observe preventive measures, including regular handwashing, avoiding direct contact with individuals showing Ebola symptoms and immediately reporting suspected cases to health workers.
Medical experts note that the Bundibugyo strain spreads through direct contact with infected bodily fluids rather than through the air. This means transmission can be interrupted through effective public health interventions, early detection and proper infection prevention practices.
Nation Awaits Presidential Guidance
Museveni’s address is expected to provide an updated assessment of the outbreak, communicate the government’s latest response strategies and outline additional measures that may be introduced in the coming weeks.
The speech will be broadcast on national television stations, radio networks and digital platforms, allowing citizens across the country to follow developments directly from the Head of State.
Uganda has previously earned international recognition for successfully containing several Ebola outbreaks through rapid response systems, public awareness campaigns and coordinated action between government agencies and health partners.
As the country awaits the President’s remarks, health officials continue to stress that vigilance, cooperation and adherence to public health guidelines remain critical in preventing further spread of the virus.
Ugandan health officials have recently dismissed misinformation circulating online, clarifying on reports regarding closure of schools and nationwide closure orders. (See Details Here and There).
