Rwanda has temporarily closed border crossings linking Rusizi District to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as authorities intensify measures to prevent the spread of Ebola following reports of a growing outbreak in the neighboring country.
The closure of the two border posts in Rusizi took effect on May 18, 2026, a day after authorities suspended movement at the busy Rubavu-Goma border.
Rusizi District Mayor Phanuel Sindayiheba said essential travelers, including students, food transporters and citizens returning to their respective countries, will continue to be facilitated under strict health screening measures.
He urged residents to remain vigilant by observing preventive guidelines such as regular handwashing with clean water and soap, avoiding handshakes, and limiting unnecessary travel, especially to areas affected by Ebola.
Sindayiheba also called on the public to seek immediate medical attention whenever symptoms associated with Ebola, including high fever, joint pain and unexplained bleeding, appear.
Regional alert heightened as Ebola cases rise
The latest measures come as countries across the region tighten surveillance following renewed Ebola outbreaks linked to the Bundibugyo virus strain in eastern DRC and Uganda.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recently classified the outbreak as a public health emergency of international concern after assessing the evolving situation in the affected countries.
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the outbreak presents a serious regional and global health risk under the International Health Regulations framework.
Health authorities in the DRC reported that at least 80 people have died while more than 240 suspected Ebola cases have been recorded in Bunia, Ituri Province.
Rwanda’s Ministry of Health has however reassured the public that no Ebola case has so far been detected in the country.
The ministry said surveillance and screening activities have been reinforced at border posts and other strategic entry points as part of efforts to safeguard public health and prevent possible transmission of the virus into Rwanda.
