Uganda Stands Strong Against Ebola While DR Congo’s Outbreak Worsens

In the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) the latest Ebola outbreak has become the second‑worst on record, with an official death toll now over 1,500.

Across the border in Uganda the picture is far calmer. The country has recorded just 20 confirmed cases – 15 of whom were imported from DRC – and two deaths.

Uganda’s health authorities say the difference is in preparation. An early alert system, a ready treatment centre at Mulago Hospital, and an “emergency medical team” ensured that the first patients were received in a matter of a day.

Dr Kasonde Mwinga, WHO’s Uganda chief, told the BBC that prevention stemmed from years of investing in preparedness: The country closed the border with DRC, screened passengers, and quarantined every contact for the 21‑day incubation period, preventing community spread.

In contrast, DRC struggled with late detection, weak surveillance, and ongoing insecurity in its Ituri province, where armed groups hinder contact tracing. Field investigators there admit they discover the virus after it has already spread.

Uganda’s success is seen as a model, and the government is sending healthcare workers to DRC to help contain the epidemic. The collaboration is framed as “we cannot win against Ebola if the Democratic Republic of Congo fails.”

In the first article, BBC reports Uganda’s test it to stop outbreak, while DRC unfortunately continues to tackle rapid spread.