AGP Executive Report

Ebola Response: WHO and Africa CDC have launched a $518m, six-month joint plan to tackle the fast-moving Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in DR Congo and Uganda, urging political commitment and community trust as confirmed cases climb and contact tracing gaps remain. Cross-Border Fallout: Uganda’s Congo border closure is hitting traders hard, with long queues at Mpondwe and cargo rotting as authorities tighten measures over contagion fears. Outbreak Update: DR Congo reports 452 confirmed Ebola cases and 82 deaths after intensified testing, while Uganda has recorded 19 cases and two deaths, with experts warning the situation could worsen without rapid isolation. Travel Restrictions: DR Congo has condemned travel bans as discriminatory, while countries including Mauritius and the UAE have imposed entry limits or quarantine rules tied to recent travel from affected areas. Local Governance & Justice: Kampala’s Chief Magistrate’s Court denied mandatory bail for NUP’s Alex Mufumbiro, keeping him jailed on incitement-to-violence charges. Economy & Infrastructure: President Museveni has officially started construction of Kidepo International Airport in Karamoja, promising jobs and tourism boost.

Ebola Response in Focus: WHO and Africa CDC unveiled a $518m, six-month Ebola plan for DR Congo and neighbouring Uganda, warning the outbreak is still “moving fast” and that containment needs political commitment, sustained funding and community trust. DR Congo Update: Congo health authorities confirmed 71 new Ebola cases in 24 hours, bringing totals to 452 confirmed cases and 82 deaths, with rapid community spread flagged in Ituri and North Kivu. Uganda at Risk: Uganda reported three more confirmed cases, taking its total to 19, as officials intensify preparedness and quarantine follow-up. Health System Pressure: WHO says the outbreak had a “big head start” and that contact tracing remains a weak point, with only about 45% of contacts being followed up. Local Development: President Museveni launched construction works for Kidepo International Airport in Karenga, aiming to boost tourism and trade in Karamoja. Sports & Economy: Uganda says it is ready to host the 2031 Africa Games, with Kampala, Hoima and Lira named as host cities.

Ebola Response in DRC and Uganda: Health workers in Ituri say they’re treating Ebola patients without tests or enough protective gear, while WHO warns the outbreak has a “big head start” and cases keep rising across borders. Public Health Preparedness: Ghana’s Health Service urges handwashing and early reporting of fever symptoms as it steps up Ebola readiness. Uganda’s Economy Under Strain: Traders say Uganda’s shilling could weaken as Ebola fears deter tourists, hitting dollar inflows. HIV Prevention Breakthrough: South Africa’s Ramaphosa is set to launch Lenacapavir, a twice-yearly injectable for HIV prevention, with Uganda listed among early rollout countries. Anti-Corruption in Local Hiring: Uganda’s IGG reports job seekers pay bribes up to Shs50m, with district service commission members implicated in about a third of solicitations. Energy and Growth: African Energy Week spotlights Eskom, ZESCO and Uganda’s UETCL as the region pushes grid expansion and electrification. Business Skills for Retailers: Nile Breweries rolls out GRIT to train 1,500 retailers in finance, stock control, and digital adoption.

Ebola Update: Uganda confirmed a new imported Ebola case, bringing infections to 16 since the DRC outbreak was declared on May 15, with 13 still on treatment, two discharged, and one death. Regional Health Coordination: East African Community health ministers agreed to harmonise Ebola surveillance and protective measures across airports, ports and land borders, setting up a regional technical taskforce to curb cross-border spread. Vaccine Push: CEPI announced up to $62m to fast-track vaccines targeting the Bundibugyo strain driving the outbreak, while experts warn the world is still playing catch-up after the virus gained a “big head start.” Travel & Economy Pressure: Tourism and travel bodies urged calm, saying the overall risk to travellers is low, but precautionary restrictions are already disrupting movement and business. World Bank Jobs Plan: The World Bank backed a 10-year Uganda strategy (2026–2035) aimed at private-sector-led growth and jobs. HIV Gains: Uganda reported a 64% drop in AIDS-related deaths and falling new infections, as it nears epidemic control targets.

Ebola Crisis in Focus: The WHO says Congo’s Ebola outbreak still has a “big head start” and response is “catching up,” with 344 confirmed cases and 60 deaths in DRC and 15 confirmed cases in Uganda; suspected cases have dropped to 116 as testing improves, but contact tracing and community trust remain weak. Security Hits Health Response: Militant violence in eastern DRC is compounding the outbreak, including an ISIS-linked ADF attack that killed 16 people near areas with Ebola cases, further disrupting containment efforts. Vaccines and Trials Push: CEPI and WHO-backed experts are fast-tracking Bundibugyo vaccine development and urging that vaccines and treatments be used only in clinical trials while researchers race to start studies amid conflict. Uganda and Region Preparedness: Ghana has updated its Ebola plan, strengthening surveillance, labs, and case management for possible imported cases. Local Uganda Angle: As Uganda prepares for President Museveni’s State of the Nation Address, analysts say citizens want a shift toward practical development priorities, including stronger industrialization. Health Measures Spread: Liberia plans to vaccinate frontline health workers and boost border screening and disinfection to prepare for any Ebola detection.

Ebola Update: WHO chief Tedros says the Congo outbreak had a “big head start” and that authorities are “still behind,” even as testing improves; confirmed cases in DRC are put at 344 with 60 deaths, while Uganda reports 15 cases and one death, with suspected cases dropping sharply as labs expand. Uganda Preparedness: Uganda’s Ministry of Health says it is closely monitoring the global situation, while UNEB extends exam registration deadlines to June 30 and warns schools against fraud in candidate registration. Regional Spillover Fears: Hurungwe district in Zimbabwe activates emergency Ebola preparedness over cross-border risk along major transport routes. Global Response Push: CEPI backs three investigational Bundibugyo Ebola vaccine candidates (IAVI, Moderna, Oxford/SII) as no licensed vaccine exists for this strain. Travel & Trade Shockwaves: The US temporarily halts visa services at embassies in Uganda, DRC and South Sudan citing Ebola, and KLM halts Entebbe services over Ebola controls. Business & Energy: Vivo Energy Uganda showcases Shell Gas clean cooking solutions for schools at the headteachers’ conference, while Equity Bank doubles down on SACCO and SME support and Spiro raises $215m to expand EV battery-swapping across Uganda and other markets.

Ebola Update: Uganda says it has placed over 600 Ebola contacts on a no-fly list as new cases push the total to 15, with 668 contacts under follow-up and 21-day monitoring. Vaccine Race: CEPI and partners are fast-tracking three experimental vaccines for the rare Bundibugyo strain, including Moderna’s mRNA candidate and an Oxford-linked shot to be manufactured by Serum Institute of India. Travel Curbs Hit Uganda: Canada suspends immigration documents for travellers from DR Congo, Uganda and South Sudan for 90 days, while KLM suspends Entebbe flights over Ebola travel controls. Finance & Housing: Bank of Uganda caps over-the-counter cash withdrawals at UGX 50m per day from 2027, and Housing Finance Bank highlights affordable housing finance at a Gulu conference. Business & Tech: Jumia marks 14 years in Uganda’s e-commerce growth, and ITC with Equity signs a deal to unlock trade finance for coffee, leather and creative industries. Culture & Community: Uganda Baati launches Safal Eye in the Wild 2026, blending photography, conservation and education.

Ebola Update (Uganda): Uganda confirmed six new Ebola cases, bringing infections to 15, with 12 patients in treatment and two discharged after recovery; authorities say 668 contacts are under follow-up, and 600 contacts have been placed on a no-fly list to curb spread. Ebola Update (DRC/WHO): The WHO scaled suspected cases in the DRC down to 116 from over 900, while confirming 321 cases and 48 deaths, as officials say many “suspected” alerts were cleared after tests showed other illnesses. Kenya-US Ebola Quarantine Row: Kenya’s high court extended a halt on a proposed US Ebola quarantine facility near Nanyuki for three more weeks and ordered the government to disclose the agreement details; protests turned violent with tear gas and reports of deaths during demonstrations. Uganda Finance: Uganda’s inaugural sovereign Sukuk got a boost after the Bank of Uganda classified it as High-Quality Liquid Assets, improving liquidity and investor appeal ahead of launch. Agriculture & Digital Economy: Seeds of Gold Clinic was launched to support smart farming, while UCC pushed for lower smartphone taxes to speed up Uganda’s smartphone adoption. Trade & Value Addition: Government says it will roll out a coffee traceability system and expand irrigation, fertiliser and extension services to strengthen export-led growth.

Ebola Vaccine Race: CEPI is backing Moderna and other partners with about $60m to speed up Bundibugyo Ebola vaccine development as Congo’s outbreak grows, with Uganda reporting confirmed cases and one death. DRC Outbreak Update: Congo says confirmed Ebola cases have reached 282, with the virus concentrated in Ituri and spreading across more health zones, while WHO and aid groups push for faster detection, isolation, contact tracing, and safer burials. Uganda Border Measures: Uganda has tightened movement along its western border with DRC amid fears of further spread, while the Ministry of Education and Sports warns schools are not closed over Ebola rumours. Kenya Quarantine Controversy: Two people were killed during protests in Nanyuki against a US-backed Ebola quarantine facility at Laikipia Air Base, as Kenya’s president defends the plan and a court orders the government to disclose details. Governance & Eligibility: Parliament’s cabinet vetting is being overshadowed by a dual citizenship row, with critics urging nominees to renounce foreign nationality or step aside. Agriculture Spotlight: dfcu Bank and partners flag off Uganda’s Best Farmers winners for a Netherlands study visit on modern farming and value addition. Police Leadership Uncertainty: Museveni’s decision on renewing contracts for senior police AIGPs is pending, adding pressure inside Uganda Police Force leadership.

Ebola Response in DRC & Uganda: WHO reports five more Ebola recoveries in eastern DR Congo, bringing total recoveries to five, as confirmed cases rise to 282 with 42 deaths; suspected cases are also being investigated in Brazil and Italy after travel links. Vaccine Race: CEPI and partners pledged about $60m for three Ebola vaccine candidates targeting the Bundibugyo strain, with Moderna among those funded, as medics struggle with low contact tracing. Aid Warning: The IRC says the outbreak is likely far worse than official figures, citing delayed detection and only about 20% of contacts traced. Kenya Quarantine Controversy: Protests erupted in Nanyuki over a US-funded Ebola isolation facility at Laikipia Air Base, after a court temporarily blocked the plan pending review. US Visa Changes for Africa: A US memo seen by AP says visa processing will be scaled back to 20 hubs, including Kampala, as embassies and consulates close. Uganda Business & Innovation: A homegrown digital marketplace (MOVO Brands) is pushing to rebuild trust in online shopping, while Spiro secured $215m to expand electric mobility and battery-swapping across Africa, including Uganda.

Ebola Update: The DRC’s Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak has climbed to 282 confirmed cases, with 42 deaths, as WHO reports five recoveries and opens/expands treatment capacity in Bunia; health officials say contact tracing is still limited and safe burials and infection control remain key. Regional Coordination: East African Community health ministers are holding an emergency virtual meeting to align cross-border response as Uganda reports confirmed cases and fears of wider spread grow. Cross-Continental Watch: Suspected Ebola cases are being investigated in Brazil and Italy after travellers returned from DRC and Uganda, while WHO warns the risk is not “pandemic” but still serious. Uganda Justice & Crime: Police say investigations are complete in the Shs 620m Kampala forex bureau robbery; seven suspects are set to appear in Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court today. Public Finance Oversight: Uganda’s Finance Ministry launches Budget Month for FY 2026/27, pushing for stronger citizen oversight as government shifts from approval to spending accountability. Banking Sector Move: Bank of Uganda approves Standard Chartered Uganda’s sale of its Wealth and Retail Banking business to Absa Bank Uganda. Digital Governance: NITA-U appoints Julian Rweju as new director of e-Government services. Business Expansion: The Initiates Plc increases its stake in The Initiates Uganda to 55%, making it a full subsidiary.

Ebola Response in DRC and Uganda: WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus visited Bunia, urging stronger community trust and “everybody’s business” cooperation as the rare Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak spreads across eastern DR Congo and into Uganda. Recovery Milestone: Tedros said five patients have recovered, with four discharged in Bunia and another earlier, including the first documented recovery of a confirmed Bundibugyo patient in this outbreak. Rising Numbers: Africa CDC says 43 deaths and 263 confirmed infections have been recorded, while more than 1,100 suspected cases are still under investigation. Regional Coordination: The EAC will hold an emergency virtual meeting of health ministers June 1–2 to coordinate surveillance, labs, rapid response teams, and risk communication, including mobile labs at border points. Uganda Local Impact: Uganda has confirmed nine cases and one death, as health workers and communities grapple with stigma and mistrust. Public Finance Shift: Uganda will stop funding national holiday celebrations from 2026/27, redirecting money toward health, education, and infrastructure. Sports Development: UTTA ratified its executive board and approved a UGX 2 billion 2026–2027 work plan at its AGM in Kampala.

Ebola in DR Congo and Uganda: WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus visited Bunia, urging early care, safe burials and community trust as the Bundibugyo outbreak accelerates—906 suspected cases and 223 suspected deaths in DRC, with Uganda reporting nine confirmed cases and one death. Border and travel fallout: Uganda’s border closure with DRC hit traders at Bunagana, while Zambia cleared two suspected cases and the UAE warned citizens against travel to DRC, Uganda and South Sudan. Kenya-US Ebola dispute: Kenya’s Health CS Aden Duale defended a US-backed Ebola lab at Laikipia, even as a Kenyan court froze the quarantine facility plan. Public health guidance for survivors: Uganda advised Ebola survivors to avoid intimacy for up to six months or use condoms consistently, saying the virus can persist in semen. Local politics and rights: NUP condemned “silent abductions” of its supporters, demanding release of missing party members. Business and tech: M-Pesa’s scale is fueling Africa’s digital entertainment boom, while Uganda’s e-mobility push calls for better infrastructure and support for boda boda operators.

Ebola Watch: WHO chief Tedros has arrived in Kinshasa as the DRC reports 906 suspected Ebola cases and 223 suspected deaths, with Uganda also recording cases; WHO says the outbreak “can be stopped” but warns it’s “very complex,” worsened by conflict, displacement, and aid shortfalls. Regional Screening: Zambia says it has cleared two suspected Ebola cases after lab tests, while stepping up border screening and surveillance as fears grow of spread from the DRC. Uganda Response: Uganda’s health ministry says it has confirmed nine cases and one death, as officials push for stronger preparedness and public protection. Kenya Court Blocks US Plan: Kenya’s High Court has temporarily frozen a US-backed 50-bed Ebola quarantine and treatment facility at Laikipia Air Base, halting the project pending a hearing. Governance & Crime: President Museveni urged stronger prosecution capacity to fight cybercrime, fraud, corruption, and transnational crime, citing a surge in corruption and economic offence cases. Finance: AfDB warns Africa’s public debt stock hit nearly $1.9tn in 2024, driven by weak tax systems and rising debt service costs. Business & Growth: AfDB reaffirmed support for Uganda’s Malaba–Kampala SGR section and pledged emergency Ebola response funding.

Ebola Response in East Africa: WHO says it expects more recoveries after the first confirmed Ebola patient was discharged in DR Congo, while also prioritising three experimental treatments for the Bundibugyo strain—MBP134, maftivimab and remdesivir—only for carefully monitored clinical trials. Uganda Updates: Uganda’s health ministry confirmed two new Ebola cases, bringing the total to nine, with the border with DR Congo closed and 21-day quarantine rules for arrivals. Regional Aid and Politics: The US pledged $13.5m to help Kenya prepare for an Ebola quarantine facility, as aid shortfalls and misinformation continue to strain response efforts in Congo. Public Health Measures: CDC is asking for volunteers to support Ebola screenings at US entry points. Governance and Accountability: In Uganda, Museveni ordered three Internal Affairs/Police officials to step aside over alleged graft tied to maintenance of the national CCTV system. Business and Consumer Protection: TotalEnergies Uganda intensified its Wininii campaign to educate the public on spotting counterfeit lubricants.

Ebola & Borders: WHO says DR Congo’s Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak has 906 suspected cases (with 223 suspected deaths under investigation) and Uganda has 7 confirmed cases, as Uganda closes its border with the DRC and tightens screening and isolation to stop community spread. World Cup Health Measures: The US, Canada and Mexico align travel rules for FIFA World Cup 2026, with Canada banning entry from DRC, Uganda and South Sudan for 90 days and requiring a 21-day quarantine for arrivals. Kenya Quarantine Plan Blocked: A Kenyan court suspends a controversial US-backed Ebola quarantine facility plan after backlash from health workers and rights groups. Treatments in Trials: WHO urges that Bundibugyo Ebola candidate vaccines and drugs be used only in clinical trials, prioritising treatments like maftivimab and remdesivir while vaccine candidates move toward testing. Economy Watch: Uganda’s shilling is seen weakening amid higher FX demand ahead of the June 11 budget, while regional currencies face pressure from global shocks. Politics & Governance: Newly nominated Uganda cabinet and state ministers thank President Museveni and outline priorities, including anti-corruption and stronger service delivery.