Uganda and Rwanda will conduct a joint cross-border health preparedness simulation exercise at the Katuna/Gatuna One Stop Border Post from November 10 to 12, 2026, to strengthen coordination and response to public health emergencies.
The exercise, organised by Uganda’s Ministry of Health in collaboration with Rwanda’s Ministry of Health and development partners, will involve simulated scenarios aimed at improving information sharing, coordination and referral arrangements between the two neighbouring countries.
In a public health statement issued on November 8, the Ministry of Health said the exercise is intended to strengthen preparedness for public health emergencies while enhancing cross-border health protection.
The ministry said members of the public may witness organised drills involving health workers and other border agencies during the three-day exercise.
However, the ministry cautioned the public against mistaking the activities for an actual health emergency, emphasising that they are part of the planned simulation exercise.
“These activities are part of the exercise and should not be mistaken for an actual health emergency,” the statement reads.
The ministry has encouraged travellers and communities neighbouring the border to cooperate with participating teams and follow guidance issued by officials throughout the exercise.
It added that the initiative is designed to strengthen public health protection while supporting safe travel and trade between the two countries.
The Director General of Health Services, Prof Charles Olaro, said the ministry commends the continued support and collaboration of health workers, development partners, security agencies and other stakeholders in strengthening Uganda’s health security.
