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Uganda Postpones Martyrs’ Day Pilgrimage Over Ebola Risk

The move aims to cut the chance of virus spread linked to cross‑border pilgrim travel from the DRC.

Overview

  • Uganda called off the June 3 national gathering at Namugongo after talks with health officials and religious leaders to lower Ebola transmission risk.
  • Health teams are screening foot pilgrims who entered from the Butembo‑Beni area of eastern DRC and have halted their onward travel in Kasese District.
  • Authorities confirmed two Ebola cases in Uganda, including a death in Bundibugyo near the DRC border, as the WHO designated the outbreak a global health emergency.
  • Catholic bishops asked the faithful to mark Martyrs’ Day with parish‑level Masses and prayers while following Ministry of Health guidance.
  • Pilgrims have been urged to return home, and the postponement is set to hit transport operators, hotels, and vendors who rely on the annual influx.