Despite a recent outbreak of Marburg Virus Disease (MVD), Rwanda remains safe for travel, tourism, and business, according to the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). The country’s Ministry of Health has assured that the outbreak is contained, and stringent health measures are in place to prevent further spread.
The RDB made this announcement following reports of a possible spread of the virus and a travel advisory issued by the United States. In a statement released on Thursday, the RDB emphasized that Rwanda remains open and operational, with robust measures to protect citizens and visitors alike. The board clarified that Marburg is not airborne and can only be transmitted through direct contact with bodily fluids, blood, or contaminated surfaces from symptomatic individuals.
“Rwanda remains open for business. But to ensure the safety of all Rwandans and visitors, we urge businesses to follow the Ministry of Health’s enhanced hygiene guidelines,” the RDB stated. Measures such as temperature checks and hand sanitizing stations are required for businesses to continue operations smoothly while ensuring public health.
The RDB also assured tourists that Rwanda remains a safe destination. “Tourism remains safe in Rwanda, with the health and safety of visitors being a top priority,” the statement read, emphasizing that the virus is not airborne like COVID-19, which significantly reduces the likelihood of travel restrictions.
Tour operators, hotels, and other service providers are following strict hygiene protocols, including temperature checks and enhanced cleaning practices. These measures ensure a safe environment for visitors without disrupting tourism.
In regard to public events, the RDB affirmed that Rwanda will continue to host events with additional safety precautions. Event venues are expected to implement hygiene measures like handwashing stations and encourage minimal close contact among attendees.
The RDB also stressed that Rwanda remains open for investment, highlighting the country’s evidence-based approach to public health challenges. “Rwanda’s proactive public health measures effectively balance public safety with economic stability, ensuring that the country remains a reliable choice for investors,” the RDB assured.
The statement underscored Rwanda’s swift and effective response to the Marburg virus, which has kept the outbreak from spreading widely. The Ministry of Health and international partners, including the Africa CDC, continue working closely to contain the situation.
Speaking during a joint press conference with the Africa CDC, Minister of Health Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana said, “The Marburg virus was caught before patients and contacts could spread far and wide, which gave us the chance to contain it.” He added that ongoing efforts to curb the virus are showing positive results, although there are isolated cases of contacts who may have traveled outside Rwanda.
Africa CDC Director Dr. Jean Kaseya commended Rwanda’s efforts and confirmed that the agency is working around the clock to support the country’s battle against the Marburg virus and other health threats like Mpox, which is also present in Rwanda.
