The Ugandan government has announced the suspension of entertainment gatherings and concerts for an unspecified period as part of measures to curb the possible spread of Ebola.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Ministry of Health listed the banned activities to include concerts, entertainment shows, cultural festivals, political rallies, marathons, walkathons, and other non-essential public gatherings.
Ministry Permanent Secretary Dr. Diana Atwine said the restrictions target high-risk events involving large crowds, uncontrolled movement, and close physical contact.
“These measures are intended to minimize opportunities for person-to-person contact that may increase the risk of transmission of Ebola infection in the event of exposure to an infected individual,” Dr. Atwine stated.
The suspension applies to the Kampala Metropolitan Area and several high-risk border districts.
However, the Ministry clarified that the directive is not a total ban on all gatherings.
Official, institutional, and essential meetings will be allowed provided organisers strictly observe Ministry of Health Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Approved events must have controlled venues with organised seating, adequate spacing, proper ventilation, mandatory temperature screening, and handwashing/sanitisation facilities.
Organisers have been instructed to prevent overcrowding, discourage unnecessary mingling, and ensure regular cleaning and disinfection of venues.
Participants must avoid handshakes and hugs, regularly sanitise their hands, and avoid sharing personal items.
Security agencies, Resident District Commissioners, District Health Teams, and local governments have been tasked with enforcing the measures, with violators to face sanctions under the National Public Health Act.
The restrictions cover the following districts: Kampala, Wakiso, Mpigi, Mukono, Yumbe, Koboko, Maracha, Arua, Obongi, Madi-Okollo, Zombo, Pakwach, Nebbi, Lamwo, Buliisa, Hoima, Kikuube, Kagadi, Ntoroko, Kyegegwa, Kyenjojo, Kamwenge, Bunyangabu, Kabarole, Fort Portal City, Bundibugyo, Kasese, Kanungu, Kisoro, and Kiryandongo.
Uganda has so far confirmed seven Ebola cases linked to the ongoing outbreak in the neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo.
