Uganda says no Ebola-free certificate required for international travel

June 19, 2026 in The Business Interview by Editor

Uganda’s Ministry of Health has moved to dispel misinformation surrounding Ebola-related travel requirements, warning the public against fraudsters selling fake Ebola-free certificates to travellers and job seekers.

 

The Ministry of Health has clarified that travellers departing Uganda are not required to obtain an Ebola-Free Certificate for international travel, visa applications, employment processing or any other cross-border movement.

In a public notice issued this week, the ministry said it had become aware of misinformation circulating among travellers, recruitment agencies and travel facilitators regarding alleged requirements for Ebola clearance certificates.

“The Ministry of Health 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 and such certificates are not a requirement for visa applications to any country,” the statement said.

The clarification comes amid ongoing public health surveillance efforts and heightened awareness around Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), following recent outbreaks in parts of East Africa. Health officials expressed concern that some individuals may be exploiting public fears by offering unauthorized testing services and fraudulent certificates.

According to the ministry, Ebola testing in Uganda is conducted strictly under established public health guidelines and response protocols. Testing is only recommended for individuals who exhibit symptoms consistent with Ebola Virus Disease or those identified by health authorities as contacts of confirmed cases following clinical and epidemiological assessment.

The ministry emphasized that routine Ebola testing is not required for healthy travellers and should not be viewed as a prerequisite for obtaining travel documents, visas or overseas employment opportunities.

Public health experts note that unnecessary testing not only places a burden on health systems but can also create opportunities for exploitation by unscrupulous individuals seeking to profit from misinformation.

The ministry has therefore urged Ugandans to remain vigilant and verify health-related travel information through official government channels before making payments or submitting to medical procedures.

Authorities specifically warned members of the public against fraudsters who claim to offer Ebola testing or certification services intended to facilitate travel, visa processing or employment applications abroad.

The advisory is expected to provide reassurance to travellers and help prevent unnecessary expenses for Ugandans seeking work, education and business opportunities overseas.

The statement was signed by Prof. Charles Olaro, Director General of Health Services, who reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that public health measures remain evidence-based and aligned with national disease surveillance protocols.

Health officials say public cooperation and reliance on verified information remain critical in preventing both disease transmission and public misinformation.