Strategic Coordination for Ebola Response
Thirty-five days after Uganda declared an outbreak of Sudan virus disease, related to Ebola virus, the Ministry of Health (MoH) convened a strategic meeting with partners, including the World Health Organization (WHO), to enhance coordination and mobilize resources. The meeting aimed to reassess response strategies in line with recent epidemiological developments and financial requirements.
Status and Response Measures
Minister of Health Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero highlighted that since the first Ebola case was confirmed on January 29, 2025, significant measures have been implemented, including improved surveillance, contact tracing, and infection prevention at health facilities. To date, the country has recorded 14 Ebola cases, comprising 12 confirmed and two probable cases. Eight patients have recovered, two remain hospitalized, and two fatalities have occurred. The virus has spread from Kampala and Wakiso to Mbale and Ntoroko, escalating response urgency.
Mobilizing Financial Support
Dr. Aceng emphasized the critical need for additional financial resources, despite Uganda’s proven ability to manage past outbreaks. “With adequate funding, Uganda, alongside its partners, can effectively contain this outbreak,” she said.
WHO Representative Dr. Kasonde Mwinga affirmed the progress but underscored the necessity of sustained commitment and resource allocation to maintain momentum against Ebola.
Technical Insights and Resource Allocation
Incident Commander Dr. Henry Kyobe Bosa provided updates on the dual outbreak scenario—Ebola and mpox. While Ebola has sporadic multi-district transmission, mpox continues as a multi-cluster outbreak. Currently, 486 Ebola contacts are under observation, indicating effective surveillance and monitoring. Yet, continuous vigilance remains essential.
Discussions also featured the 4W partner matrix, a WHO-developed digital tool tracking financial resources and partner commitments. This latest update revealed that 27 partners are actively involved in supporting response efforts.
Key Actions Moving Forward
Partners agreed to update the 4W matrix regularly, ensure timely funding disbursements, and reinforce coordination through Uganda’s National Task Force. Special support will target the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), while ongoing funding dialogues with USAID and the CDC aim to secure further resources.
Given Uganda’s history of effective Ebola management, the Ministry remains confident that this outbreak can be contained with continued collaborative efforts and adequate resources.
Original story: https://www.afro.who.int/countries/uganda/news/who-engages-partners-support-ugandas-fight-against-ebola-disease
- Original Story:
- Story By:
- Date:
- Please Support: