The Government of Japan has announced an emergency grant of USD 500,000 to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies to support Uganda’s efforts to contain the ongoing Ebola outbreak and prevent further spread of the virus.
The funding will be channeled through the Uganda Red Cross Society, enabling the humanitarian agency to scale up community engagement, surveillance, contact tracing, and other frontline response activities in affected and high-risk areas.
The grant comes as health authorities and humanitarian partners intensify efforts to break chains of transmission and strengthen public awareness about Ebola prevention and treatment.
According to IFRC, the funding will support community awareness campaigns, deployment of trained volunteers for contact tracing and case monitoring, support to treatment and isolation centres, procurement of personal protective equipment (PPE), distribution of hygiene supplies, psychosocial support services, and the strengthening of surveillance and early warning systems.
Uganda Red Cross volunteers are already working in communities to educate the public about Ebola prevention, counter misinformation, and encourage individuals with suspected symptoms to seek medical attention promptly.
Robert Kwesiga, Secretary General of the Uganda Red Cross Society, welcomed the support, describing it as a critical boost to ongoing response efforts.
“We deeply appreciate Japan’s timely and generous support during this critical period. This funding will significantly strengthen our capacity to contain Ebola, protect communities, and deliver lifesaving assistance to those most at risk. It reflects the strength of our partnership and shared commitment to saving lives.”
The latest contribution reinforces the longstanding partnership between Japan, Uganda Red Cross, and IFRC while highlighting the importance of international cooperation in responding to public health emergencies.
Uganda Red Cross remains a key partner in the national Ebola response, working closely with government health authorities to deliver community-based interventions and support frontline health services.
Louise Daintrey-Hall, IFRC Head of Country Office in Uganda, said community action remains central to ending Ebola outbreaks.
“Ebola outbreaks begin and end in communities, and it is Red Cross volunteers who stand at the heart of this response. Japan’s contribution will strengthen the Uganda Red Cross to scale up lifesaving work, helping communities protect themselves and stop the spread of Ebola.”
IFRC said it is continuing to mobilize additional resources and technical support to ensure a sustained and effective response as the situation evolves.
The Government of Japan’s support reflects a broader commitment to strengthening global health security and enhancing emergency preparedness and response capabilities in vulnerable regions.
As Uganda continues to monitor and contain the outbreak, health experts say sustained financing, strong surveillance systems, and coordinated action will remain essential to protecting communities and preventing further transmission of the disease.
