Uganda Slaps 21-Day Quarantine on Citizens Returning from DR Congo

Uganda has imposed a mandatory 21-day quarantine on citizens returning from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and will not allow most travelers who have been in DRC to transit through the country, the BBC reported on Tuesday. The measures apply to all Ugandan nationals arriving from DRC, who will be required to undergo the three-week quarantine at designated facilities.

The restrictions come as Uganda seeks to prevent the importation of infectious diseases from its western neighbor, which has grappled with outbreaks of Ebola and other health emergencies in recent years. While no specific outbreak was cited in the announcement, Ugandan health authorities have previously tightened border controls during periods of heightened risk. The move echoes similar measures taken during the COVID-19 pandemic, when Uganda implemented strict quarantine protocols for arrivals.

The new rules could disrupt cross-border trade and travel, affecting thousands of people who commute between the two countries daily. Uganda hosts a large Congolese refugee population and maintains strong economic ties with DRC. Critics argue the blanket quarantine may be disproportionate and could deter citizens from returning home. Ugandan officials have not yet specified the duration of the measures or whether exceptions will be made for essential workers. The international community will be watching closely to see if other countries in the region follow suit.