Over the last decade, Uganda’s borders have faced outbreaks like Ebola, COVID-19 and cholera. Amid an ongoing mpox outbreak, the country is enhancing border health efforts, screening over 1,2 million travellers monthly.

From 19 to 22 May 2025, 40 health officers from 24 border posts attended a four-day training in Kampala. Led by the Ministry of Health, it aimed to strengthen response capabilities.

The officers learned to map population movement, assess health risks, detect outbreaks, and use a new digital screening tool. They also honed their skills in cross-border coordination and community engagement, which is especially important at informal crossings where communities and travellers mix.

A highlight of the training was a new digital reporting tool, already used in Rwanda, which Uganda will test at selected points of entry. This tool will help streamline surveillance and speed up responses across borders.

The Elegu point of entry, on the Uganda-South Sudan border, was highlighted as a success story. Despite limited resources, the border post screens over 3,000 people daily. Patrick Lamot, Cross-Border Coordinator at Elegu, shared how the team utilises a WhatsApp group to enhance coordination and has established strong partnerships across borders to manage health risks effectively.