Uganda and Rwanda will conduct a three-day joint health preparedness exercise at the Katuna/Gatuna border crossing from November 10 to 12, involving health workers and border agencies…reports Asian Lite News Desk
Uganda and Rwanda are set to conduct a joint cross-border health preparedness exercise at the Katuna/Gatuna One Stop Border Post from November 10 to 12, as the two countries step up efforts to strengthen coordination and preparedness for public health emergencies. The three-day simulation will involve health workers and border agencies, with authorities emphasising that the planned drills should not be mistaken for an actual health emergency.
Uganda’s Ministry of Health announced the exercise in a public health statement dated November 8, saying it would be conducted in collaboration with Rwanda’s Ministry of Health and other partners.
The exercise will use simulated scenarios to improve coordination, information sharing and referral arrangements between the neighbouring countries, particularly in responding to potential public health emergencies.
According to the statement, members of the public may observe organised drills involving health workers and personnel from other border agencies during the three-day exercise.
The Ministry stressed that the activities are part of a planned preparedness exercise and should not be interpreted as an actual health emergency.
The initiative is designed to strengthen public health protection while ensuring the safe movement of people and goods across the Uganda-Rwanda border.
Travellers and communities living near the border have been encouraged to cooperate with participating teams and follow instructions issued by officials during the exercise.
The Ministry also acknowledged the continued support and collaboration of health workers, development partners, security agencies and other stakeholders in strengthening Uganda’s health security.
The public health statement was signed by Professor Charles Olaro, Director General of Health Services at Uganda’s Ministry of Health.
The exercise comes as both countries seek to improve cross-border cooperation and strengthen their ability to respond to public health threats while maintaining the smooth movement of travellers and trade.
