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Rwanda Restricts DRC Entry Over Ebola
The Ministry of Health has issued a strict directive regarding foreign arrivals where “all foreign nationals who have travelled to or transited through the DRC within the last thirty (30) days prior to their intended travel to Rwanda will be denied entry" as effective immediately.
According the notice released on Friday, May 22, the citizens and registered residents face mandatory isolation if they have a history of traveling through RDC.
"Rwandan nationals and foreign residents with valid proof of residency in Rwanda will be permitted entry. However, those who have travelled to, or transited through the DRC within the same thirty (30) day period will be subject to mandatory quarantine procedures in line with public health protocols," the ministry explained in the statement.
The Ministry of Health said that it continues to closely monitor the Ebola outbreak reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
"There is currently no case of Ebola in Rwanda," the government firmly reassured the public.
The new restrictions are part of Rwanda’s ongoing precautionary measures to protect public health, further strengthen preparedness, early detection and rapid response capacity.
To enforce this directive, the Ministry of Health has reinforced health screening and vigilance at land points of entry along the border with the DRC. In addition, enhanced entry control measures are being implemented at Kigali International Airport for inbound travellers to Rwanda.
The Ministry of Health, together with WHO Rwanda, earlier this week briefed international organisations and the diplomatic corps in Rwanda on the country's preparedness and the precautionary measures currently in place, stated in the statement.
The Ministry emphasized that "all activities within Rwanda continue as usual, including conferences, events, tourism, business, and travel within Rwanda."
Officials stated that Rwanda remains open, safe and prepared.
Visitors, residents and event participants are encouraged to continue with their planned activities while observing standard hygiene practices and following official public health guidance.
The Ministry of Health, in coordination with other relevant Government institutions, will continue working closely with national, regional and international partners to protect the health and safety of everyone in Rwanda.
