Border movement between Rubavu District and the Democratic Republic of the Congo has been heavily restricted as authorities respond to fears linked to an Ebola outbreak in eastern Congo.

Rwandan nationals returning home and Congolese citizens going back to DR Congo are currently the only travelers allowed to cross, subject to mandatory health checks.

Security teams have also been deployed along illegal crossing routes, commonly referred to as “panya” paths, to ensure no unauthorized movement takes place.

Rubavu Mayor Prosper Mulindwa confirmed the closure measures, saying the public should cooperate fully since the restrictions are intended to protect lives.

He noted that no Ebola infection has been detected in Rwanda, but authorities are acting early to prevent possible transmission from neighboring areas.

The latest Ebola outbreak has been reported in Ituri Province in eastern DR Congo, where dozens of deaths and hundreds of infections have already been recorded. Authorities fear the virus could spread further to nearby cities such as Goma, increasing the risk to neighboring countries including Rwanda.