Kasolo urges Saudi to lift Ebola restrictions

Uganda has appealed to Saudi Arabia to lift travel restrictions imposed on Ugandan travellers over concerns linked to the

Ebola outbreak, as Kampala seeks to restore normal movement between the two countries. The appeal was made by State Minister for Foreign Affairs in charge of Regional Cooperation, Harunah Kyeyune Kasolo, during Saudi Arabia’s 96th National Day celebrations at the Sheraton Hotel in Kampala. “Uganda is now free from Ebola. I wish to request that you lift the ban on issuance of visas to Saudi Arabia to enable our Muslim brothers and sisters who wish to travel to Makkah to renew their faith,” Kasolo said. Uganda was declared Ebola-free by the Ministry of Health on July 28 after completing the required period without new infections. The World Health Organisation subsequently declared the outbreak over on August 27 following 42 days of monitoring. Despite the end of the outbreak, Saudi Arabia has maintained restrictions linked to concerns over the risk of Ebola transmission, particularly because of Uganda’s porous border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, where the outbreak was centred. The restrictions have disrupted travel plans for Ugandan pilgrims and travel operators planning Umrah trips to Makkah, with some flight and hotel bookings reportedly expiring as travellers await clearance.

Kasolo’s appeal comes amid renewed efforts by Uganda to deepen its bilateral relations with Saudi Arabia. He said Uganda values its partnership with the Kingdom in areas including trade and investment, agriculture and agro-processing, tourism, education, health, labour mobility, science and technology, digital innovation and human capital development.

He reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment

Kasolo’s appeal comes amid renewed efforts by Uganda to deepen its bilateral relations with Saudi Arabia. He said Uganda values its partnership with the Kingdom in areas including trade and investment, agriculture and agro-processing, tourism, education, health, labour mobility, science and technology, digital innovation and human capital development.

to expanding economic, social and institutional ties with Saudi Arabia for the mutual benefit of the two countries.

“We remain committed to working with our Saudi partners to expand these areas of cooperation and create greater opportunities for our peoples,” he said.