Traders and residents in Ntoroko District are urging the government to reopen weekly markets and border crossings with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), saying prolonged restrictions imposed to contain the Ebola outbreak have severely affected livelihoods and local trade.
The restrictions were introduced in May after Uganda confirmed an outbreak of the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD).
On May 15, health authorities announced a confirmed case in Kampala, prompting the government to activate emergency public health measures aimed at preventing further transmission of the highly infectious disease.
As part of the containment measures, the government temporarily suspended cross-border movement with the DRC, while local authorities in Ntoroko halted operations at weekly markets and livestock trading centres due to the risk of transmission linked to large gatherings and cross-border interactions.
The affected markets include Butungama in Kyabukunguru, Nyakasenyi, Rwebisengo Town Council, Kibuuku Central, Kisege, Makondo Livestock Market, Kakogha Livestock Market, and Bugando Livestock Market.
At the time the restrictions were imposed, Ntoroko Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Cyrus Muzeyi said residents would continue accessing food and other essential commodities within their communities, but trading activities in the affected markets would remain suspended until the Ebola situation improved.
Residents and traders now say the continued closure of these markets and border points has affected income sources and disrupted economic activities in the district.
By Our Reporter
14th July 2026
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