Kisoro district leaders have cautioned residents against crossing into the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) following an outbreak of Ebola disease in Beni territory, North Kivu province.
Following the capture of the Uganda-DRC border town of Bunagana by the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels in June, there has been an uncontrolled movement of civilians both Congolese and Ugandans to and from nearby areas in Rutshuru territory, especially through porous borders.
Business is also booming at the border point of Busaza especially on Saturday and Monday after the Congolese government suspended operations of Bunagana until rebels are removed.
But, following the outbreak of Ebola in Beni on Monday, the district authorities are on alert.
Dr. Stephen Nsabiyunva, Kisoro District Health Officer says that the outbreak of Ebola in Beni is a wake-up call to the health officials.
He says that they have set up screening centers at the Uganda-Rwanda border of Chanika and Nyakabande refugees’ transit center that is currently hosting about 11,305 Congolese refugees. Dr. Stephen on Ebola speaking….
Dr. Stephen also says that health authorities plan to establish another screening center at the Busanza border. END.