South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for enhanced cross-border collaboration across Africa to curb the spread of Ebola following new outbreaks reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda.
In a statement released by the Presidency on Sunday, Ramaphosa commended the governments of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda for their swift response in declaring the outbreaks, noting that early reporting, transparency, and rapid containment measures remain essential in preventing wider regional transmission.
His remarks came shortly after the World Health Organization declared a public health emergency of international concern in response to the outbreak, which has resulted in more than 80 deaths in the DRC and confirmed spread into Uganda.
Ramaphosa also acknowledged the efforts of neighbouring countries, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, and the WHO for supporting preparedness and coordination efforts aimed at limiting further spread.
He warned that Ebola poses a significant regional threat due to high population movement, insecurity in affected areas, and ongoing humanitarian displacement.
“Ebola does not respect borders,” the president said, stressing the need for intensified surveillance at both official and informal entry points, alongside improved real-time information sharing among affected nations.
He further urged African Union member states and international partners to strengthen support through funding, technical expertise, medical resources, and assistance to communities directly impacted by the outbreak.
