AGP Executive Report

Uganda Tourism Under Pressure: Hospitality operators in Kampala say Ebola-related travel advisories and flight suspensions are driving cancellations and losses, with many visitors rerouted or quarantined after travel from Uganda/DRC. Aviation Boost for Travel: Uganda Airlines says it has signed a commitment to acquire 10 Boeing aircraft (eight passenger jets plus two freighters), aiming to expand Entebbe connections and support trade, tourism and cargo. Budget Push for Tourism: Uganda’s 2026/27 budget allocates Shs567.32bn to tourism—branding, destination infrastructure, hospitality standards, conservation and “economic diplomacy”—as receipts rise to $1.86bn in 2025. Ebola Reality Check for Travelers: WHO says the risk of Ebola spreading to World Cup host countries remains low, with no cases reported in North America or Europe, but Uganda and DRC continue to report rising Bundibugyo cases. Labour Migrant Tracking: Government plans a digital tracking system for Ugandans working abroad to improve monitoring and consular support. Health Infrastructure: Lubowa Hospital is 75% complete, with Shs5.23tn for health in 2026/27, including specialised care and emergency response.

Ebola & Travel Safety: WHO says Ebola risk for 2026 FIFA World Cup host countries (US, Canada, Mexico) and Europe remains low, with no cases reported there, while DRC records 676 cases and Uganda 19 cases (plus two deaths); WHO urges fans to travel normally but stay alert to symptoms. Testing Strain in DRC: WHO warns three major DRC labs have run out of Ebola testing reagents, risking delays in confirming cases, isolation, and contact tracing. Uganda Budget Boost for Tourism: Uganda’s 2026/27 budget allocates Shs567.32bn to tourism—destination marketing, site infrastructure, hospitality standards, conservation, and “Explore Uganda” branding. Tourism-Linked Health Infrastructure: Lubowa International Specialised Hospital is 75% complete and expected to finish in Dec 2027, as health gets Shs5.23tn. Aviation for Tourism & Trade: Uganda Airlines signs a $985m Boeing deal for 10 aircraft (passenger and cargo), aiming to strengthen regional connectivity. Security Spending: Government sets aside Shs10.21tn for security and governance, including border security and crime intelligence—key for safer travel.

Ebola & Travel Safety: Uganda’s Ebola risk stays high as WHO reports continued transmission in DRC and warns Uganda remains vulnerable, while President Museveni tells the nation the “fire” is easing after days without new cases; WHO also advises against blanket travel restrictions, stressing screening and surveillance instead. World Cup Health Watch: As the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off, health officials in Toronto say Ebola risk is low but they’re watching for more likely outbreaks like norovirus, using wastewater monitoring and stronger public health messaging. US-Driven Travel Curbs: The US presses Europe to tighten entry rules for travellers from Ebola-affected African nations, even as Belgium rejects an entry ban request, saying science doesn’t support it. Uganda Airlines Expansion: Uganda Airlines signs a $985m Boeing deal for 10 aircraft, promising stronger passenger and cargo capacity that could boost tourism and trade. Intern Allowances Row: Uganda’s government will review the decision to stop medical interns’ pay, after UMA rejected a “lunch instead of allowance” proposal. Mob Justice: Parliament orders a report on mob justice after the death of a rugby player in Kampala, with government vowing tougher action.

Ebola & Travel Alerts: Ebola fears are driving fresh travel warnings and border tightening across the region, with Uganda named among high-risk destinations as cases in DR Congo climb past 600 and Uganda reports 19 confirmed cases; WHO and Africa CDC are urging stronger screening and community trust rather than blanket bans. World Cup Health Jitters: As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, officials in the US and Europe are clashing over how strict travel limits should be, while health experts say the risk of spread at matches remains low but monitoring is ramped up. Uganda Airlines Expansion: Uganda’s national carrier signed a Shs3.7 trillion Boeing deal for 10 aircraft, signaling more direct long-haul, regional and cargo routes from Entebbe—big news for travelers and tourism connectivity. Tourism Disruption: Uganda Rugby Cranes 7s pulled out of the Rugby Africa Mauritius Sevens after Mauritius restricted entry for people linked to Ebola-affected countries, showing how health rules can hit sports travel fast. Local Business & Tourism: The Eastern Region UMA trade fair opened in Mbale, spotlighting local industry and skills—an indirect boost for visitor-facing growth.

Ebola Travel Pressure: The US urged other nations to “step up” against Ebola, pushing for commonsense travel restrictions and more funding as World Cup travel ramps up, with Washington warning Europe that stricter measures could follow if action isn’t taken. Regional Outbreak Update: Africa CDC says confirmed Ebola cases in DR Congo and Uganda have surpassed 600 with 102 deaths, while response teams face shortages of PPE, water, ambulances and mounting insecurity and low community trust. Uganda’s Response Leadership: A cover story spotlights Dr Diana Atwine, Uganda’s Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary, as the long-time crisis manager now carrying heavy pressure during the current regional epidemic. Nigeria Preparedness Push: President Bola Tinubu approved a Presidential Ebola Task Force and released ₦10 billion to strengthen airport screening and emergency response capacity via NCDC. Tourism Angle: With hotels and nightlife in Lagos told to tighten hygiene and safety after global Ebola alerts, travel disruptions and added screening risks are spreading across the region. Kenya Protests: In Nanyuki, police shot dead a protester against a US-backed Ebola quarantine plan, raising fears among locals that the facility could affect tourism and healthcare capacity.

Ebola Response (Uganda): WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus visited Uganda, praising the country’s border screening, surveillance, testing and case management as Uganda reports 19 confirmed cases (14 imported from DRC, 5 local) and two deaths; he urged Uganda to reconsider the late-May border closure with DRC, saying blanket travel restrictions don’t work. Ebola Update (Regional): Africa CDC says confirmed Ebola cases in DRC and Uganda have surpassed 600 (608) with 102 deaths, while response teams face major operational constraints including shortages of PPE, chlorine, boots, decontamination supplies, unpaid staff pressures, poor roads and weak community trust. Travel & Tourism (Entebbe): Uganda Wildlife Authority’s Entebbe Zoo (best in East/Central/West Africa) expects 650,000–700,000 visitors next financial year, supported by World Bank-linked improvements and government tourism focus. Safety for Visitors (Roads): Vivo Energy Uganda donated 500 child safety helmets worth Shs 40m to Uganda Police to boost school road-safety awareness for boda boda riders. Tourism Business (Zanzibar): Zanzibar plans a stock exchange and investment bank to unlock capital for tourism and other priority sectors. Travel Disruption (Border enforcement): UPDF checkpoint in Pakwach arrested five Congolese nationals for illegal entry amid Ebola border restrictions; authorities warn of tougher measures if a case is detected in West Nile. Ebola & World Cup Travel (Global): With World Cup travel underway, the U.S. and Europe are pushing for tighter Ebola travel restrictions, while Kenya faces protests over a U.S.-backed Ebola quarantine centre in Nanyuki.

Ebola & Travel Policy: WHO chief Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus says Uganda’s Ebola travel restrictions and border closure with DRC are unnecessary and counterproductive, urging countries to reconsider as Uganda reports transparently and keeps case-fatality low; he also praised Uganda’s vigilance, screening, testing and case management at Mulago. Ebola Response on the Ground: Uganda is finalising support to DRC with plans to deploy health teams and expand treatment capacity, including additional facilities and a lab in Congo, as the outbreak in eastern Congo continues to surge. Regional Impact: WHO warns the outbreak could keep disrupting travel and supply chains, while the DRC situation report puts confirmed Ebola deaths at 101 with cases rising past 550 amid insecurity and attacks on health workers. Tourism & Skills: A World Bank-backed tourism training push is taking shape in Jinja, building infrastructure and partnerships to tackle workforce gaps—timely as health advisories and visitor concerns loom. Local Innovation for Travellers: A Makerere University student showcased Pee-Gal, a disposable female urination device aimed at improving hygiene in public facilities, with potential benefits for hikers and travellers. National Culture: Uganda marks 37th Heroes’ Day with a scaled-down State House ceremony as austerity measures cut public spending.

Ebola Update (Uganda-DRC): WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus visited Uganda and praised the country’s “prompt and capable” Ebola response, citing border screening, surveillance, testing and case management, while urging Uganda to reconsider Congo border closures because blanket travel restrictions “don’t really help” and harm the economy. Outbreak Scale: WHO reports Ebola cases have topped 500 in the DRC (with confirmed deaths rising), while Uganda has recorded 19 confirmed cases and two deaths, with suspected cases under monitoring. Travel & Tourism Impact: WHO says travel restrictions imposed on Uganda are unnecessary and counterproductive, a key concern for travellers and the tourism sector as regional advisories tighten. Global Support: Dubai delivered 20 tonnes of medical aid to boost Ebola response in the DRC, including PPE, disinfectants and tents, to support hundreds of patients and frontline health centres. Local Life & Safety: WHO also pointed to Uganda’s decision to cancel Martyrs Day crowds as a wise move to reduce fast-spreading risk.

Wildlife & Tourism: Uganda Wildlife Authority reports a newborn lion cub in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, spotted in good health as it fed alongside its pride—another boost for Uganda’s famed tree-climbing lion tourism. Ebola Update (Uganda): Uganda’s Ministry of Health confirms three new Ebola infections, bringing the total to 19, with most cases linked to cross-border transmission from the DRC; 13 patients are in isolation treatment, four recovered, and one additional death reported. Ebola Preparedness (Travel): Uganda’s Interior Ministry orders governors nationwide to intensify Ebola surveillance, screening, investigation and control, including possible isolation or quarantine for at least 21 days for suspected contacts. Regional Health Pressure: Congo’s Ebola fight is being strained by low pay and fatigue among health workers, raising concerns about sustained response capacity. Tourism Infrastructure: Government officials toured a new branded 5-star Marriott luxury property in Nsambya, signaling continued investment aimed at attracting high-end visitors. Travel Safety in the Wider World: UAE and Mauritius have tightened entry rules for travelers linked to Ebola-affected countries, adding more friction for regional movement. Education & Capacity: A new education census warns enrolment gains are outpacing classrooms, teachers, sanitation and secondary access—an indirect pressure on future travel and school-linked mobility.

Ebola Surveillance Boost for Uganda: Uganda’s Interior Ministry says governors across all provinces have been told to tighten Ebola surveillance, screening, investigation and control after WHO-linked outbreaks in Uganda and DR Congo, including isolating or quarantining suspected travellers for up to 21 days and coordinating with immigration, airports and security teams. UAE Tightens Travel Rules: The UAE suspended new visas and barred entry for travellers from Uganda, DR Congo and South Sudan, with an exemption only for those who spent at least 21 days in a non-restricted third country; cargo and transit flights continue. Uganda’s Outbreak Update: Uganda reports 3 more Ebola infections, bringing total confirmed cases to 19, with new patients described as known contacts already in quarantine; the Ministry also notes one new death and reassures visitors that the country remains open. Tourist Ebola Scare in India: A Ugandan woman quarantined in Jaipur after Ebola-like symptoms tested negative, while another suspected case in Hyderabad was also under testing after fever detection. Regional Preparedness in Rwanda: Rwanda says it has activated response capacity—communication, surveillance, diagnostics, contact tracing and treatment centres—while monitoring developments in neighbouring Uganda and DR Congo. World Cup Health Pressure: Health experts warn the 2026 World Cup could amplify infectious disease spread through mass travel and crowding, with Ebola and measles among the concerns.

Ebola Update for Travellers: Uganda-linked Ebola fears kept spreading across borders, but fresh reports from India show suspected cases testing negative—an Ugandan woman isolated in Jaipur after Ebola-like symptoms was cleared, and another Sudanese traveller in Hyderabad also tested negative, easing immediate travel anxiety. Regional Health Measures: As the Central Africa outbreak continues to worry neighbours, South Africa’s border authority says it has intensified screening for flights from DRC and Uganda, while Kenya ramps up surveillance and confirms suspected samples at key entry points are negative. Travel Restrictions Hit Routes: The UAE suspended new visas and barred entry for travellers from Uganda, DRC and South Sudan as a precaution, and Mauritius temporarily banned entry for foreigners coming from those countries (with a mandatory 21-day quarantine for residents/citizens). Tourism & Connectivity: Amid health jitters, UNDP is pushing tourism potential around Lake Victoria Basin, aiming to link the lake region with the northern safari circuit—an effort that could support Uganda’s wider East African travel market.

Ebola Travel Curbs: The UAE has suspended new visas and barred entry for travellers from Uganda, DRC and South Sudan, with an exemption for those who spent 21+ days outside the region; Emirates says the rules apply even via connecting flights, while cargo and transit flights continue. Uganda’s Situation: Uganda’s Ministry of Health reports 19 confirmed Ebola cases as of June 6, with no new cases in the latest update, and officials reiterate the country remains safe and open to visitors. Regional Preparedness: Kenya says it has no confirmed Ebola cases, but is intensifying screening at Malaba and other entry points; authorities also confirm 59 suspected cases tested negative. Tourism Infrastructure: Construction of Kidepo International Airport has begun in Karenga, with President Museveni saying it will improve access to Kidepo Valley National Park, boost tourism and jobs, and expand markets for local products. Funding Boost: The U.S. will add nearly $38m to Ebola response efforts in DRC and Uganda, supporting surveillance, contact tracing, border screening, treatment and public awareness. Eid Relief: Qatar Red Crescent Society’s Eid Al-Adha campaign reached 247,344 beneficiaries across 14 nations including Uganda.

Ebola Update for Uganda Travelers: Uganda’s Ministry of Health says 3 new Ebola cases have been reported, bringing the total to 19; the new patients were contacts under institutional quarantine, and four people have recovered and been discharged. US Boosts Response: The US announced an extra $38m for Ebola efforts as CDC modeling warns the DRC outbreak could reach 20,000 cases without strong public health action. Regional Screening Intensifies: Kenya says it has screened over 80,000 travellers and tested 56 suspected samples, all negative, while the UAE bars entry/visas for travellers linked to the DRC, Uganda and South Sudan. Travel Disruption Watch: DRC health officials call Ebola travel bans “discriminatory,” and countries keep tightening entry rules; a suspected Ebola case in India involved a foreign national from Uganda, with samples sent for testing. Tourism Infrastructure: Construction of Kidepo International Airport has begun in Karenga, expected to improve access to Kidepo Valley National Park and boost Karamoja tourism.

Tourism & Aviation: President Museveni has launched construction works for Kidepo International Airport in Karenga, a USD 72m project backed by the UAE, aimed at boosting tourism, trade and investment in Karamoja and opening up Kidepo Valley National Game Park. Regional Tourism Push: East African Community officials say Afcon 2027 should be treated as a tourism engine, urging cross-border tour packages so visitors leave as “ambassadors” of East Africa. Ebola & Travel Disruptions: Uganda reported 3 new Ebola cases (total 19), while the UAE announced visa suspensions and entry restrictions for arrivals from DRC, Uganda and South Sudan. Border Strain: Over 200 Congolese were stranded at the Mpondwe border after Uganda closed the post due to Ebola fears. Global Travel Caution: Kenya screened 80,000+ travellers for Ebola with 56 suspected samples testing negative; in India, a Ugandan tourist in Jaipur was isolated with Ebola-like symptoms but tests were pending. Health Outlook: CDC modelling warns the Central Africa outbreak could reach 20,000 cases without strong isolation and public health measures.

Ebola & Travel Safety: UKHSA has urged NHS hospitals and clinics to be ready for possible Ebola cases after the DRC outbreak was declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, while WHO says the risk to the UK public is low; Regional Coordination: East African Community health ministers agreed to harmonise Ebola surveillance and protection at airports, ports and land borders across the bloc, including traveller health declarations; Uganda Update: DRC reported 363 confirmed Ebola cases with 62 deaths, as Uganda reported recoveries and continued monitoring of contacts; Tourism Impact: WTTC says the Ebola situation is localised and urges calm, warning that broad travel disruptions can hurt destinations—meanwhile traders link Uganda’s currency pressure to fears that tourists may rethink trips; Travel Advisories: Bahrain issued a cautionary travel advisory for Uganda and the DRC; On-the-ground Reality: Reports from Ituri highlight health facilities lacking tests and PPE, with workers saying they “live with fear”; Health Systems & Preparedness: PAHO is stepping up preparedness in the Americas with shipments for lab detection, even as risk remains low.

Ebola & Travel Safety: The Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in DR Congo and Uganda remains a top travel concern as WHO reports confirmed cases rising to 363 in DR Congo (with 62 deaths) while Uganda reports 4 recoveries; health teams stress quarantine, contact follow-up, and airport/border screening, and the EAC has agreed to harmonise Ebola surveillance across airports, ports and land borders with a regional technical taskforce. Tourism Impact & Messaging: The World Travel & Tourism Council urges calm, saying the risk to international travellers is still low and warning that broad, mismatched restrictions can unnecessarily disrupt tourism and livelihoods. On-the-Ground Response: WaterStep says it is launching emergency bleach production hubs in Congo, Uganda and Kenya to strengthen sanitation where supply chains are fragile. Traveler Guidance: Separate coverage highlights the need for pre-trip vaccinations beyond Ebola—especially measles—warning that outbreaks can spread fast when vaccination status is unknown. Regional Preparedness: Kenya, Tanzania and other states are stepping up screening and public alerts while insisting no local cases have been confirmed. Uganda Tourism Diplomacy: Uganda’s embassy in Addis Ababa concluded a 10-day familiarisation trip with Ethiopian tour operators and media to boost tourism diplomacy and people-to-people ties.