By Issa Hussein - Reporter
Uganda, June 28, 2026 - The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), in collaboration with regional and international health partners, has convened representatives from 13 African Union member states in Kampala to bolster cross-border preparedness and response to the ongoing Bundibugyo Virus Disease (BVD) outbreak.
The meeting brings together officials from Africa CDC, the World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa (WHO AFRO), the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), UNICEF and other partners to coordinate efforts aimed at preventing the spread of the disease across national borders.
According to Africa CDC, strengthening regional preparedness remains the most effective defence as response efforts to the outbreak continue.
Delegates are working to develop a coordinated regional strategy focused on enhancing disease surveillance, expanding laboratory networks, strengthening emergency operations centres, improving screening and monitoring at Points of Entry, and increasing community engagement.
The initiative is intended to improve the ability of participating countries to detect, respond to and contain potential cases early, while reducing the risk of cross-border transmission.
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Health experts have consistently emphasized that regional cooperation is essential in managing infectious disease outbreaks, particularly in areas where cross-border movement is frequent.
The meeting underscores the commitment of African Union member states and their partners to reinforce public health systems and ensure a coordinated response to emerging health threats across the continent.