Uganda on Friday started mandatory COVID-19 testing for all incoming travelers, according to the country's air transport regulator.

The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) said in a statement that five PCR test machines with a capacity to test 300 samples per hour have been installed at the Entebbe International Airport.

A notice has been given to airmen communicating details of mandatory testing requirements to all airlines, the UCAA said.

The measures are intended to curb a further importation of the deadly coronavirus variants into the country, curb further transmission and guard against a third wave, Ugandan authorities said.

The country has previously been only testing passengers from high-risk countries.

Earlier government statements said that all inbound travelers, including children, are required to arrive with a negative PCR test result done within 72 hours prior to travel.