The Ministry of Health has clarified that travellers departing from Uganda are not required to obtain Ebola-Free Certificates, warning the public against fraudsters exploiting travellers with false claims about mandatory testing and certification.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Ministry emphasized that Ebola-Free Certificates are not a requirement for visa applications to any country, dismissing growing misinformation targeting travellers, recruitment agencies, and travel agents.
The clarification comes amid reports of individuals and groups allegedly offering Ebola testing and certificates for travel, employment opportunities, and visa processing at a fee.
According to the Ministry, Ebola testing in Uganda is conducted strictly under national public health guidelines and response protocols and is only recommended for people showing symptoms consistent with Ebola Virus Disease or those identified as contacts of confirmed Ebola cases following clinical and epidemiological assessment by health authorities.
“The Ministry wishes to inform the general public, travellers, recruitment agencies, travel agents, and all stakeholders that travellers departing from Uganda do not require an Ebola-Free Certificate,” the statement noted.
Health officials urged Ugandans to remain vigilant and avoid falling prey to fraudsters seeking to exploit public fears and travel requirements for financial gain.
The statement was signed by Prof. Charles Olaro, the Director General of Health Services, who reassured the public that Uganda continues to follow established public health procedures in managing Ebola-related risks.
He called on the public to seek information from official government channels and report suspicious individuals claiming to offer unauthorized Ebola testing or travel certificates.
