On January 30th, the Ministry of Health declared an outbreak of Sudan Ebola Virus Disease, marking a concerning moment in the region, particularly with the first confirmed death reported in Kampala. In response to this troubling news, the Ministry of Tourism has reassured the public and stakeholders that there is no immediate cause for alarm.
Dr. Basil Ajer, the Director of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, urged all stakeholders, especially tour operators and tourism professionals, to remain calm and focused during this time. He emphasized that while there may be isolated instances of cancellations from travelers, such occurrences should not be seen as a significant issue or cause for widespread panic.
These assurances were made during a recent meeting where participants discussed the implications of the newly enacted Museums and Monuments Act 2023. The discussions highlighted the importance of maintaining the country’s tourism momentum even in the face of health challenges. Ronah Nahabwe reports that officials are committed to ensuring that both locals and international visitors can continue to enjoy the rich cultural heritage and wildlife experiences that the region has to offer, while also prioritizing health and safety.
The Ministry is also closely monitoring the situation and collaborating with health authorities to provide timely updates to the public and the tourism sector, ensuring that any necessary measures are implemented swiftly to protect the community and its visitors.
