Support Community-Led Ebola Containment in Uganda

Cross-Border Market Engagement Reduces Ebola Transmission Risks Between Uganda and the DRC

Dear supporter,

Markets along the Uganda–Democratic Republic of Congo border are more than centers of commerce—they are lifelines for thousands of families who depend on daily trade for food, income, and essential goods. As Uganda continues responding to 20 confirmed Ebola cases and neighboring communities in the Democratic Republic of Congo remain on high alert, these busy trading centers have become a key focus for disease prevention. Thanks to your generous support, targeted interventions are helping markets operate more safely while protecting traders, transporters, and customers.

Working alongside market associations, local government officials, community health workers, and border authorities, outreach teams continue conducting regular health education sessions before trading begins each day. Vendors are being encouraged to maintain clean stalls, promote regular handwashing, recognize the early signs of Ebola, and report suspected illness immediately. Handwashing facilities installed at market entrances continue serving thousands of people, while volunteers provide practical demonstrations on proper hand hygiene and answer questions from traders and visitors.

Many traders regularly cross between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, making consistent health messaging especially important. Coordinated awareness campaigns on both sides of the border are ensuring that prevention guidance remains clear, accurate, and culturally appropriate. Market leaders are also helping discourage misinformation by directing community members to trusted health sources whenever concerns arise.

These interventions are strengthening confidence among traders while helping communities continue essential economic activities responsibly. Your generous partnership is protecting livelihoods and public health simultaneously. Every market reached, every vendor trained, and every traveler who adopts safer practices contributes to a stronger regional response capable of reducing Ebola transmission while sustaining the vital cross-border commerce that supports thousands of families.