JUBA, JUNE 3, 2026 – His Excellency President Salva Kiir Mayardit has directed health authorities to strengthen surveillance, screening, and emergency preparedness measures at all ports of entry as the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda continue to battle Ebola outbreaks.

The directive followed a comprehensive briefing to the president on the government’s preparedness and response capacity through the National Public Health Institute.

President Kiir instructed health and security agencies to work jointly in strengthening border management, ensuring strict monitoring of travelers, and preventing the entry of unauthorised persons or individuals suspected of carrying the virus.

“We pray to God to reduce all the illnesses affecting our people, but you must also do what is required of you,” President Kiir said. “No one is blamed for the sake of blaming. People must do what they are supposed to do. We are putting the health of the South Sudanese people in your hands, and we trust that you will do everything possible to ensure their safety.”

Minister of Health, Luke Thompson, said he recently attended a tripartite meeting in Kampala aimed at developing a coordinated preparedness and response plan among frontline countries at risk of the disease.

Health officials also expressed gratitude to the Senior Presidential Envoy on Special Programs for donating 10 Land Cruiser vehicles to support emergency preparedness and response efforts amid the ongoing Bundibugyo Ebola Virus Disease outbreak in the region.

The Executive Director of the National Public Health Institute, Dr. Kediende Chong urged the public to strictly observe health guidelines issued by authorities, including minimising handshakes and avoiding unnecessary contact that could increase the risk of transmission from infected persons or animals.

Health officials reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to protecting the population, stressing that authorities remain fully dedicated to strengthening emergency preparedness, response capacity, and coordination across all relevant institutions.