Pader leaders call for vigilance as Ebola threat raises concern

1 June 2026, 19:37

By Ekel Bonny Daniel

Pader District leaders have urged residents to remain vigilant against Ebola following reported cases in Uganda and neighbouring regions. LCV Chairperson Mr Alfred Akena, RDC Mr Boniface Pule and health official Mr Ambrose Ongwech called for strict hygiene practices, including regular handwashing and the use of sanitisers in public places. They emphasised preparedness, community cooperation and adherence to health guidelines to prevent any outbreak in Pader.

Pader District leaders have urged residents to remain vigilant and strictly follow Ebola prevention measures amid growing concerns over reported cases in Uganda and outbreaks in neighbouring countries.

While addressing journalists from his office at the district headquarters on Monday, 1 June 2026, Mr Alfred Akena, the Pader District LCV Chairperson, called on residents to take the threat seriously, noting that Ebola has previously claimed many lives in Uganda.

He urged the public to observe preventive measures recommended by health authorities, including regular handwashing, the use of sanitisers, avoiding handshakes and maintaining good personal hygiene.

“We must remain alert and work together to protect our communities from Ebola. Prevention is our first line of defence,” Mr Akena said.

The district chairperson also revealed that district security leaders were scheduled to meet to assess the situation and discuss preparedness measures aimed at preventing any possible outbreak in Pader District.

Assistant Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Mr Boniface Pule echoed the call for vigilance and urged households, schools, churches, markets, hotels, taxi parks and other public places to establish handwashing facilities and ensure that preventive measures are observed at all times.

Mr Pule further appealed to transport operators and conductors to provide sanitisers for passengers and maintain cleanliness in vehicles.

He emphasised that community cooperation would be critical in keeping the district safe.

“Ebola is real, and we should not wait until a case is reported here before taking action. Let us work together to protect our families and our district,” he said.

Meanwhile, Mr Ambrose Ongwech, the Acting Assistant District Health Officer in charge of Maternal and Child Health, called on institutions and public places to strengthen hygiene practices.

He urged schools, markets, public offices, churches and health facilities to ensure that handwashing facilities with clean water and soap are readily available.

District leaders have assured residents that they will continue working closely with health authorities to strengthen surveillance and keep Pader safe from Ebola.