Uganda to continue anti-ADF operations despite DRC Ebola outbreak

Uganda's military says it will continue joint operations with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) against the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) despite the ongoing Ebola outbreak in eastern DRC.

The Uganda Peoples' Defence Forces (UPDF) said there are no plans to suspend military activities, citing the continued threat posed by the ADF, which has been blamed for attacks, killings and abductions in eastern Congo.

"The UPDF will continue operations against ADF remnants while observing Ebola prevention measures and maintaining standard operating procedures," acting military spokesperson Chris Magezi said.

The announcement comes days after World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus appealed to armed groups operating in eastern DRC to observe a ceasefire to allow health workers safe access to affected communities and support efforts to contain the outbreak.

Ugandan and Congolese forces have been conducting joint military operations against the ADF since November 2021. The rebel group, which originated in Uganda and is now based in eastern DRC, has been linked to numerous attacks on civilians in the conflict-ridden region.

Speaking during a visit to the DRC, Tedros described the latest Ebola outbreak as "very complex," warning that insecurity, armed conflict, population displacement, food shortages and community mistrust are complicating response efforts.

Health authorities and humanitarian agencies have raised concerns that ongoing violence could hamper surveillance, contact tracing and treatment activities needed to contain the spread of the virus.

The DRC is battling its latest Ebola outbreak amid persistent insecurity in the east, where multiple armed groups remain active. Regional health officials have warned that cross-border movement and conflict could increase the risk of further transmission if response efforts are disrupted.