President Yoweri Museveni has rejected what he described as exaggerated international reporting on Ebola outbreaks in Africa, insisting that the virus is easier to contain than COVID-19 and should not be a cause for global alarm.
In remarks aimed at reassuring the public, Museveni said Ebola outbreaks, while serious, are not new to Africa and can be controlled through established public health measures that have been successfully deployed across the continent for decades.
The President argued that comparisons between Ebola and COVID-19 are often misleading. Unlike COVID-19, which spread rapidly through airborne transmission and crossed continents within weeks, Ebola is transmitted through direct contact with infected bodily fluids, making it easier for health authorities to track and interrupt chains of infection.
“Ebola is easier to control than COVID-19,” Museveni said, emphasizing that effective surveillance, contact tracing and isolation remain powerful tools in stopping outbreaks before they become widespread.
He pointed to Uganda’s extensive experience in handling Ebola cases, noting that the country has repeatedly contained outbreaks through coordinated action by health workers, local leaders and communities. Over the years, Uganda has developed response systems that are now regarded among the strongest in the region.
Museveni also criticized what he sees as a tendency among some international media outlets to focus on fear rather than facts whenever Ebola emerges in Africa. He argued that such coverage often overlooks the capabilities of African health systems and the lessons learned from previous outbreaks.
The President’s comments come as health authorities across the region continue to monitor and respond to Ebola cases reported in neighbouring countries. Governments have stepped up preparedness measures, including disease surveillance, public education campaigns and screening efforts in high-risk areas.
Health experts continue to caution that Ebola remains a deadly disease and requires swift action whenever cases are detected. However, Museveni maintained that experience has shown the virus can be contained when communities cooperate with health officials and governments respond quickly.
His remarks reflect a message he has consistently promoted during past health emergencies: that preparedness, science and public cooperation are more effective than panic.
As authorities remain vigilant, Museveni sought to reassure both Ugandans and the wider international community that Africa possesses the knowledge, experience and capacity needed to confront Ebola outbreaks and prevent them from escalating into larger crises.
