Uganda has received specialized Ebola response equipment worth approximately USD 199,000 (about Shs755 million) from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), strengthening the country’s efforts to contain the ongoing Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak.
The equipment was officially handed over to the Government of Uganda at Entebbe International Airport and is expected to enhance surveillance, traveller screening, and infection prevention measures at key entry points and within affected communities.
Funded by the United States Government through the Bureau of Global Health Security and Diplomacy (GHSD), the donation includes three state-of-the-art thermal scanners, a multipurpose emergency response tent, and 60 automated hand sanitizer dispensers.
The advanced thermal scanners are designed to detect elevated body temperatures in crowded environments without disrupting normal operations. Using high-sensitivity thermal imaging technology, the devices enable real-time screening of travellers, making them a vital tool in preventing the spread of Ebola through international travel.
The equipment will primarily be deployed at Entebbe International Airport and other high-risk locations across the country to support ongoing screening and response activities.
According to health authorities, Uganda had recorded 19 confirmed Ebola cases as of June 8, 2026. Of these, 12 remain active, five patients have recovered, and two people have died. Hundreds of contacts linked to the outbreak are currently under close monitoring. Health officials note that many of the cases have been associated with transmission from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), underscoring the importance of strengthening border health security.
The donation comes at a critical time as the Ministry of Health continues to coordinate nationwide efforts to contain the outbreak and prevent further transmission.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary Dr. Diana Atwine said the equipment would address key preparedness gaps previously identified at Entebbe International Airport.
“We will ensure that this equipment is put to good use. We are not resting on our laurels. We must keep the people of Uganda safe, but also keep our neighbours safe. By keeping our neighbours safe, we are also keeping the globe safe,” she said.
Health Minister Dr. Chris Baryomunsi welcomed the support and assured partners that the equipment would be properly maintained and effectively utilized.
“I would like to appreciate this donation to the Government of Uganda. We shall take good care of the equipment and ensure that it serves its intended purpose,” he said.
The Acting Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Uganda, Jessica Healey, emphasized that the contribution forms part of a broader regional strategy to combat Ebola.
She noted that the U.S. Department of State, working closely with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and regional governments, continues to support a rapid and comprehensive response to the outbreak. Through more than USD 220 million in funding, the U.S. Government is supporting preparedness and response activities, including contact tracing, border screening, health facility support, and community awareness campaigns aimed at countering misinformation.
United Nations Resident Coordinator in Uganda Leonard Zulu praised the United States and other development partners for their continued support.
He highlighted the collaborative efforts of UN agencies in strengthening surveillance at points of entry, supporting frontline health services, delivering lifesaving supplies, and providing communities with accurate health information.
“Through these collective efforts, we remain fully committed to supporting Uganda to contain the outbreak and protect everyone, everywhere,” Zulu said.
The equipment was formally handed over by IOM Uganda Chief of Mission Sanusi Tejan Savage, who stressed the importance of robust frontline surveillance systems in preventing cross-border transmission.
“Strengthening screening and surveillance capacities at points of entry is critical to stopping the spread of Ebola. This support reinforces our partnership with the Governments of Uganda and the United States to enhance early detection and response, particularly at key ports of entry such as Entebbe International Airport,” Savage said.
The donation marks another significant step in Uganda’s fight against Ebola, reinforcing the country’s capacity to detect, prevent, and respond to potential cases while safeguarding public health both nationally and across the region.
