Tanzania has strengthened its surveillance systems against Ebola, with more than 75,000 travellers screened at various entry points across the country, while confirming that no single case of the disease has been detected to date.
The Government has intensified cooperation with neighbouring countries including Uganda, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burundi and Kenya as part of regional efforts to prevent cross-border transmission of the virus.
Chief Medical Officer Dr Grace Magembe said the measures are part of strengthened national preparedness and response systems, following increased alerts on Ebola risk in the region.
She made the remarks on May 30, 2026, during an inspection tour in Kagera Region focused on assessing border readiness and emergency health services.
She was accompanied by officials from the Ministry of Health, the President’s Office–Regional Administration and Local Government, and regional authorities.
Dr Magembe said that since the alert level was raised, health authorities have screened over 75,000 travellers at border posts, airports, ports and other points of entry.
She added that around 45,000 individuals were subjected to further medical assessment after being identified as suspected cases based on established risk criteria.
She said all suspected cases were managed in line with national and World Health Organization guidelines, which include assessing travel history to affected areas, possible contact with infected persons, and the presence of symptoms associated with Ebola.
All individuals identified as suspected cases were tested and clinically evaluated, with none confirmed to have Ebola infection in Tanzania, she said.
Dr Magembe noted that the government has put in place continuous surveillance systems at all entry points, where every incoming traveller undergoes routine health screening to reduce the risk of importation of infectious diseases.
She further explained that health workers remain on high alert due to the similarity of Ebola symptoms with those of other diseases, urging continuous vigilance, early detection and strict adherence to infection prevention and control measures in all health facilities.
Members of the public were urged to report any suspected cases through the national emergency hotline 199, local government offices, or nearby health facilities, as the government continues to strengthen rapid response capacity.
Dr Magembe emphasized that health workers are operating around the clock to ensure early detection and rapid containment of any potential outbreak.
Meanwhile, Director of Preventive Services at the Ministry of Health, Dr Otilia Gowelle, said public awareness campaigns have been intensified to educate communities on Ebola prevention measures.
She said health education is being delivered through multiple channels including television programmes, printed materials and direct engagement by health workers at community level and in health facilities.
The government said continued surveillance, regional cooperation and public awareness remain key pillars in maintaining Tanzania’s Ebola-free status and strengthening preparedness against future outbreaks.
