Canada Extends Ebola Travel Restrictions for Uganda, DRC, and South Sudan Until November 2026
Ottawa, Canada — The Government of Canada has extended its temporary immigration and border measures for residents of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Uganda, and South Sudan by an additional 60 days. The restrictions, which were originally set to expire on September 28, will now remain in effect until November 27, 2026.
According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the extension is necessary to “respond to the Ebola disease outbreak and continue to protect the health and safety of Canadians.” The government cites ongoing concerns over the Ebola outbreak in the DRC and associated risks to neighboring countries as the primary rationale for the prolonged measures.
Strict Border Measures Remain in Place
The extended rules continue to suspend visas and travel authorizations for foreign nationals from all three affected countries. Furthermore, a mandatory 21-day quarantine is required for all travelers arriving from Uganda or South Sudan—a mandate that notably applies to everyone, including Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
This marks the third extension of these temporary measures.
Ugandan Pushback and Economic Concerns
The extension has sparked significant frustration among Ugandan citizens and stakeholders, who argue the measures are disproportionate. Critics point out that Uganda currently has no active Ebola cases, and South Sudan has not reported any cases either.
Prominent Ugandan entrepreneur Amos Wekesa voiced his frustration publicly on X (formerly Twitter), directly questioning the Canadian government’s motives.
“Uganda has NO Ebola! Not heard of South Sudan having Ebola either!” Wekesa wrote. “When CANADA and US lock UGANDA out, the rest of world locks out, some quietly by limiting visas, others block you outright. Over 6yrs of travel restrictions kills a small economy like Ugandas. Ministry of health, you see the impact of speaking fwaaaa?”
Wekesa’s comments highlight a broader concern among Ugandans regarding the cascading global effect of restrictions imposed by Western nations, which they say severely impact the country’s economy, education sector, and family reunions.
Ongoing Diplomatic Talks
In response to the growing tension, Uganda’s Foreign Minister, Adonia Ayebare, stated that diplomatic talks with Canadian officials regarding the travel measures are continuing.
About The Author
