IOM Donates Ebola Response Equipment Worth $755 Million to Uganda
KAMPALA, Uganda — The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has donated Ebola response equipment valued at $755 million to Uganda’s Ministry of Health to strengthen efforts aimed at preventing and controlling the spread of the deadly disease.
The donation includes three Sentry Mk IV thermal scanners, 60 automated hand sanitizer dispensers, and multipurpose tents complete with furniture to establish holding areas for suspected Ebola cases.
Health Minister Dr. Chris Baryomunsi explained that the equipment will enhance screening and surveillance at key points of entry and improve preparedness in high-risk districts, particularly those bordering the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), where the current Ebola outbreak is centered.
The donation comes as Uganda intensifies measures to prevent the virus from spreading within its borders. On Wednesday, the Ministry of Health announced additional prevention guidelines following a national address by President Yoweri Museveni on the Ebola situation.
Speaking after the President’s address, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi said Ebola prevention directives had been distributed to all districts bordering eastern DRC. The measures include heightened surveillance, public awareness campaigns, and stricter adherence to health protocols.
To minimize the risk of transmission, authorities have suspended mass gatherings such as weddings and market days in affected areas. Schools have also been instructed to strictly implement Ministry of Health guidelines aimed at protecting students, teachers, and staff.
Despite concerns over the outbreak, health officials reported encouraging signs, noting that Uganda has not registered any new Ebola cases in the past five days.
According to the Ministry of Health, the country has recorded a cumulative total of 19 confirmed Ebola cases, including two deaths since the outbreak was declared.
Government officials have urged the public to remain vigilant, observe health guidelines, and promptly report any suspected cases as the country works to contain the disease and prevent further infections.
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