The World Health Organisation (WHO) has applauded President Yoweri Museveni for postponing Ugandaโs annual Martyrsโ Day celebrations as part of efforts to curb the spread of Ebola.
In a statement, WHO Regional Director for Africa, Mohamed Janabi, described the move as a strong demonstration of leadership and commitment to public health amid rising Ebola cases in Uganda and eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus also praised Uganda for taking swift preventive measures, including postponing the June 3 pilgrimage at Namugongo Martyrs Shrine, which annually attracts hundreds of thousands of pilgrims from across Africa.
President Museveni said the decision followed consultations with health experts and religious leaders due to the growing Ebola threat linked to cross-border movement from eastern DRC, where at least 88 deaths have been reported.
Uganda has so far confirmed two imported Ebola cases connected to travellers from DRC, prompting intensified border screening, surveillance, contact tracing and emergency response measures.
WHO has since declared the Ebola outbreak in Uganda and DRC a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, warning that continued cross-border movement could accelerate transmission.
Health authorities have identified more than 100 contacts for quarantine and monitoring, while the government continues urging the public to observe strict hygiene measures and report suspected symptoms immediately.
Ugandaโs Martyrsโ Day celebration is one of the countryโs largest religious events, commemorating the Uganda Martyrs who were executed for their faith under Kabaka Mwanga II.
