AGP Executive Report

Ebola Response & Funding: WHO and Africa CDC launched a $518m emergency plan to curb the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak as cases spread in DRC and Uganda, while officials warn a funding shortfall and shortages of PPE could undermine response efforts. Cross-Border Trade & Travel: The Trump administration urged Europe to tighten travel restrictions from Ebola-hit countries ahead of the 2026 World Cup, raising fears of wider travel curbs and knock-on effects for regional movement. Uganda Policy & Governance: Uganda enacted the Protection of Sovereignty Act 2026, requiring entities receiving foreign money to register as foreign agents—an issue critics say could affect civil society and parts of the economy. Power Supply: Kenya’s electricity sector leaders warned of worsening supply and load shedding tied to political interference, calling for open, competitive procurement to cut power costs. Agri-Business & Development: Uganda’s rail milestone saw 633 tonnes of crude palm oil delivered to BIDCO in Jinja after an eight-year rail gap, easing road pressure and improving logistics. Road Safety & Corporate Social Impact: Vivo Energy Uganda donated 500 child safety helmets worth Sh40m to police to boost school road safety for boda boda riders. Regional Finance & Markets: Shelter Afrique rebranded into a development bank and flagged stronger momentum to finance affordable housing across Africa, while Zanzibar plans a stock exchange and investment bank to unlock long-term capital.

Ebola Response & Trade Impact: WHO chief Tedros praised Uganda’s Ebola containment, saying travel restrictions are unnecessary and mainly hurt the economy, as Uganda reports 19 cases and keeps border labs running while health teams prepare to support DRC. Regional Health Funding: Africa CDC and WHO launched a unified six-month Ebola plan for June–November 2026, targeting $518m to strengthen surveillance, labs, care and cross-border coordination. Ebola Surge in DRC: Congo’s Bundibugyo outbreak jumped to 515 cases and 91 deaths, with no licensed vaccine for this strain, raising pressure on Uganda’s preparedness. Infrastructure Finance: Uganda secured a €270m Afreximbank loan to fund roads, rail, ports, energy, industrial parks and agricultural value addition, with an Afreximbank East Africa trade office set to open in Kampala. Tourism & Skills: World Bank-backed training in Jinja is expanding tourism workforce capacity, while Uganda’s coffee sector faces a short-term hit as April export earnings fell 10% despite record volumes. Business & Investment Moves: TIP acquired a 20% stake in a Ugandan firm to deepen its East Africa expansion, and UCC granted Shs182.6m to university-led innovation projects. E-commerce Enforcement: Japan’s customs agents are training internationally, including Ugandan participants, to better tackle counterfeits in cross-border parcel trade. Public Finance & Governance: Uganda marks Heroes’ Day with a scaled-down State House ceremony as government austerity trims spending on public functions.

Ebola Response & Border Policy: WHO chief Tedros praised Uganda’s Ebola containment efforts after visiting Mulago, citing strong screening, surveillance, testing and case management, while urging countries to ease travel restrictions that he says are unnecessary and economically damaging. Ebola Numbers & Regional Coordination: Uganda reported 19 confirmed cases and two deaths as the DRC outbreak climbs past 500, with WHO pushing cross-border collaboration and warning against crowd events that could accelerate spread. Cabinet Swearing-In: President Museveni presided over the swearing-in of 78 ministers, but four nominees missed the oath after citizenship-related concerns, including delayed appointments tied to dual citizenship. Agribusiness & Trade: FAO warned that fertilizer shocks could worsen food insecurity, urging countries to keep trade open on agricultural inputs and use fertilizer efficiently. Coffee Market: Uganda’s coffee export earnings fell about 10% year-on-year in April to $155.5m as global prices weakened, though the 12-month trend remains up. Business & Finance: Uganda ranked 24th globally as an outsourcing destination in the 2026 Global Outsourcing Talent Index, boosting its BPO and digital services appeal.

Ebola & Trade Controls: The EU says a ceasefire in eastern DR Congo is now a public health necessity as fighting disrupts Ebola containment, while MPs from Nyanza urge Uganda to tighten safeguards to prevent spread through Lake Victoria trade and island business links. Frontline Strain: In Congo’s Ebola epicentre, health workers report low pay and exhaustion, as cases rise and community transmission is flagged, with Uganda also recording confirmed cases and deaths. Regional Preparedness at Borders: Kenya and Uganda, with ECSA-HC, are assessing Ebola screening and Standard Operating Procedures at Busia’s One Stop Border Post to plug gaps in passenger checks. Funding Clean Energy: Equity Bank Uganda is expanding green financing for solar and clean cooking, using green loans and results-based financing to cut upfront cost barriers for households and businesses. Sports Nutrition Push: BIRDC and the Uganda Olympic Committee commit over Shs2.5bn to a Nutrition for Sports initiative, alongside plans for a major banana processing factory. Education Power Upgrade: A solar rollout in Kilulu-Mbale is helping schools keep learning running despite unreliable grid electricity.

Ebola & Border Health: Africa CDC and WHO launched a $518m, six-month joint continental plan to curb the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak, pushing a “one plan, one budget, one team” approach across surveillance, labs, infection control, clinical care and community engagement. Regional Preparedness at Trade Points: Kenya and Uganda are running a joint Ebola preparedness assessment at Busia One Stop Border Post with ECSA-HC, focusing on screening gaps and Standard Operating Procedures to protect a key freight and passenger corridor. Uganda’s Local Response: Uganda’s Office of the President warned the public against fraudsters selling “RDC jobs,” stressing there are no vacant posts and no lists for appointments. Wildlife Enforcement: Uganda handed over 8.9 tonnes of seized wildlife contraband at Entebbe for destruction, tightening efforts against illegal trade. Health Innovation: Africa CDC hailed approval of Coartem Baby, a malaria treatment designed for newborns and infants under 5kg, expected to roll out across trial countries including Uganda. Education & Costs: Moroto schools report low term turnout as hunger and domestic work keep children away, with partners supplying learning materials to boost attendance.

Ebola & Trade Disruption: Uganda’s border closures and tighter controls linked to the DRC Ebola outbreak are hitting traders hard, with consignments stuck at Mpondwe and losses mounting as cross-border movement slows. Regional Health Funding: The US has added nearly $38m to Ebola response efforts in DRC and Uganda, bringing its direct contribution to over $200m, while WHO pushes a $518m Africa plan to strengthen prevention, detection and response. Travel Curbs Spread: Mauritius has temporarily banned entry for travellers from DRC, Uganda and South Sudan (with 21-day quarantine for residents/citizens), and the UAE has introduced Ebola-linked travel restrictions affecting inbound and transit passengers. EAC Budget Strain: The EAC faces a staffing crisis as vacancies rise and retirees miss pay amid a funding gap, threatening operations across key regional institutions. Green Finance Push: Equity Bank Uganda is rolling out cleaner-energy financing to make solar and clean cooking more affordable, using longer repayment structures and supplier-linked models. Business Climate Watch: Morocco tops Africa’s business destination rankings, with Uganda placed among the lower tier—an investor signal for the region. Digital Inclusion: A look at what Ugandan telecoms can learn from Kenya’s Safaricom and South Africa’s Vodacom on disability-focused access.

Ebola Response Funding: The U.S. State Department added nearly $38m to Ebola efforts in DRC and Uganda, bringing its direct contribution to over $200m, with support for screening, contact tracing, treatment and public awareness. Regional Trade Impact: Uganda’s Congo border closure over Ebola fears is leaving traders with rotting cargo and mounting losses at Mpondwe as trucks are stuck for days. WHO Plan: WHO unveiled a $518m, six-month Africa-wide plan to curb the outbreak, citing fast spread and the need to strengthen prevention, detection and response capacity in DRC and Uganda. Travel Restrictions Ripple: Mauritius temporarily banned entry for travellers from DRC, Uganda and South Sudan (with a 21-day quarantine for residents/citizens), while the UAE also imposed Ebola-linked travel restrictions affecting Uganda and the region. EAC Cash Crunch: The EAC is facing a staffing crisis after budget shortfalls, with retirees reportedly missing gratuity and many secretariat posts still vacant. Clean Energy Finance: Equity Bank Uganda launched green financing to make solar and clean cooking solutions more affordable, pushing longer repayment terms for households and SMEs. Tourism Push: UNDP is backing plans to unlock Lake Victoria Basin tourism and investment, aiming to create jobs while protecting the ecosystem.

Ebola & Borders: Uganda’s Mpondwe traders say border closures over Ebola fears are leaving consignments rotting, as the WHO and Africa CDC push a $518m, six-month Ebola plan for DRC and Uganda, with enhanced screening and community engagement. Regional Health Watch: Kenya reports no confirmed Ebola cases but has screened 80,000+ travellers and tested 56 samples, all negative, while other countries tighten entry rules. Trade & Compliance: Uganda’s export push is hitting familiar friction as authorities warn that compliance gaps are blocking local products from lucrative markets, with exporters and trade agencies meeting in Kampala to close the gap. Finance & Banking: Standard Bank says it wants to become the largest bank in East Africa by 2030, targeting a bigger client base and earnings growth across its Uganda corridor. Infrastructure & Tourism: President Museveni has launched Kidepo International Airport works in Karamoja, aiming to boost tourism, jobs and market access for local producers. Sports Media: UBC acquired rights to broadcast 2026 FIFA World Cup matches live and free across Uganda. Business & Skills: Mbale Skills Expo is set to connect young people with practical training as manufacturers seek job-ready talent.

Ebola Response Funding: WHO has unveiled a $518m, six-month joint plan with Africa CDC to tackle the fast-moving Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in DR Congo and neighbouring Uganda, stressing political commitment, sustained money and community trust; Uganda’s confirmed cases rose to 19 with two deaths, while DR Congo reported rapid community transmission and rising fatalities. Cross-Border Business Hit: Traders at Uganda’s Mpondwe border say Ebola restrictions are crushing sales, especially for perishable goods, with some vendors stranded and forced to sell at steep losses. Airport Boost for Tourism & Trade: President Museveni launched construction of Kidepo International Airport in Karamoja, a project estimated at over $72m, aiming to unlock tourism, investment and cargo opportunities. Sports & Local Economy: Uganda is set to host the 2031 Africa Games across Kampala, Hoima and Lira, with expectations of major visitor spending and new business opportunities. Trade & Export Readiness: Uganda’s export push is being slowed by compliance gaps, as authorities engage over 100 exporters and trade actors to meet international standards. Skills for Jobs: Mbale Skills Expo is underway to bridge the skills-to-jobs gap by linking young people with practical training and industry opportunities. Tech Governance for Finance: Finance leaders are urged to adopt AI governance policies as privacy and security risks rise with wider AI use in business. Islamic Finance Rules: Rwanda Stock Exchange launched Islamic listing and trading rules to expand Shariah-compliant products and attract regional and Gulf capital.

Ebola & Public Health: Uganda is feeling the economic ripple as traders link the shilling’s pressure to tourist pullbacks amid fears of the DRC-linked Ebola situation, while Ghana’s health service urges handwashing and early reporting to improve survival chances. Ebola Response Gaps: In eastern Congo, frontline staff say hospitals lack Ebola tests and protective gear, with clinicians “living with fear” as cases go unconfirmed. Health Tech & Vaccines: Roche says it built a rapid PCR test for the rare Bundibugyo Ebola strain in six days, and scientists report AI-designed “super-antigen” vaccine tech that could broaden protection against virus families. Business & Markets: Uganda’s currency outlook is mixed but seen under pressure; meanwhile, rising beef prices are squeezing households and retailers as disease outbreaks and dry spells cut cattle supply. Energy & Trade Finance: AfDB backs ATIDI with a $125m equity boost to expand trade risk insurance, and African utilities from Uganda and beyond are set to spotlight grid expansion at AEW 2026. Governance & Economy: President Museveni used SONA to warn against corruption and “parasitic leadership,” pushing for transformation into a money economy.

Ebola Update (Uganda): Uganda confirmed a new imported Ebola case on June 4, bringing infections to 16 since the DRC outbreak was declared on May 15; 13 patients are in treatment, two have recovered, and one has died, with officials stressing Uganda remains safe and open for trade. Regional Health Coordination (EAC): EAC Health Ministers agreed to harmonise Ebola surveillance and protective measures across airports, ports and land borders, setting up a regional technical taskforce to coordinate the response. Vaccine Push (CEPI): CEPI says it will invest up to $62m to fast-track vaccines targeting the Bundibugyo strain, which currently has no licensed vaccine, alongside efforts to expand the candidate pipeline. Jobs & Growth (World Bank): The World Bank endorsed Uganda’s 10-year Country Partnership Framework (2026–2035) aimed at accelerating private-sector-led transformation and jobs. Trade Finance (AfDB): AfDB approved a $125m equity boost to ATIDI to expand trade, credit and political risk insurance across Africa. Cost of Living (Taxes): Uganda’s new 2026/27 tax measures take effect July 1, with economists warning higher levies—especially on fuel—could raise transport and broader prices. Halal Economy: Experts highlighted the importance of halal certification as Uganda positions the halal market to attract tourism and investment. Sports & Community Finance (CRDB): CRDB Bank Foundation pledged Sh400m to sponsor the Imbeju Ndondo Cup 2026, supporting grassroots teams and player awards. Environment & Compliance: A study reviewing 108 environmental impact assessments questions whether Uganda’s system is being followed as more than box-ticking.

Ebola Response & Regional Trade: East Africa is tightening its Ebola readiness as the outbreak in eastern DR Congo keeps spilling across borders, with Uganda reporting confirmed cases and WHO warning that contact-tracing gaps and vaccine shortages still threaten containment; the EAC also welcomed Germany’s KfW funding to support mobile labs, diagnostics and lab training, while Uganda’s rail and logistics links remain a key focus for keeping the Northern Corridor moving safely. Health & Community Impact: In eastern Congo, women are bearing the heaviest caregiving risk in overcrowded displacement areas, and WHO says the response is “catching up” even as suspected cases have dropped sharply; meanwhile, Lwiro’s primate rehabilitation center in South Kivu has been locked down to protect animals and reduce spillover fears. Uganda Policy & Business Watch: Ahead of Uganda’s State of the Nation Address, analysts are pushing for a shift toward industrialization and results over politically driven spending, while courts continue to send a message to business on environmental compliance after NYTIL was fined UGX 180m for polluting the River Nile. Cross-Border Finance & Growth: Uganda’s broader economy is also in the spotlight with BoU approvals and digital finance moves, as well as regional investment themes like Standard Bank backing Kenya during Ruto’s visit and Spiro’s $215m push to scale battery swapping across markets including Uganda.

Ebola Vaccine Push: CEPI has backed three investigational Ebola Bundibugyo vaccines (from IAVI, Moderna and Oxford, with Oxford to be manufactured by Serum Institute of India) as the DRC outbreak spreads into Uganda. Uganda Health Focus: Uganda’s malaria vaccine rollout is showing strong progress after one year, with calls to protect gains through better community engagement, cold chain and sustained funding. Cross-Border Ebola Pressure: WHO is urging countries to lift blanket travel restrictions, arguing for exit screening instead, as confirmed cases and deaths in Congo and suspected cases in Uganda remain a concern. Kenya-US Tensions: Protests against a proposed US Ebola quarantine facility in Kenya’s Nanyuki turned deadly after police fired, killing two people and injuring others—highlighting how health measures can collide with public fear. Local Business & Energy: Vivo Energy Uganda showcased Shell Gas clean cooking solutions for schools at the ASSHU conference, while Equity Bank reaffirmed support for SACCOs and small businesses. Finance & Policy: Bank of Uganda approved Absa’s acquisition of Standard Chartered Uganda’s retail business, and Uganda’s 2026/27 tax changes are set to hit households and firms from July 1, with fuel levies among the most debated.

Banking & Payments: Bank of Uganda sets new over-the-counter cash withdrawal caps from Jan 1, 2027—UGX 50m/day for individuals and UGX 250m/day for businesses—while digital channels remain unaffected, pushing more customers toward e-payments. E-commerce: Jumia marks 14 years in Uganda, saying it helped grow online shopping from low-internet days into today’s expanding digital commerce ecosystem. Trade Finance: ITC and Equity Group sign an MoU to unlock trade finance for coffee, leather and creative industries across East Africa, pairing funding with skills to help MSMEs move up the value chain. Housing Finance: Housing Finance Bank highlights affordable housing solutions at a Gulu real estate conference, stressing incremental lending models for families that build homes gradually. Regional Business & Agriculture: Uganda launches Halal Farmers’ Centres to boost smallholder incomes and production standards, aiming to improve market access. Digital Economy: Uganda’s UCC pushes lower smartphone taxes and new financing models to speed up smartphone adoption and digital inclusion. Ebola’s Business Disruption: Namugongo traders report a quieter Martyrs Day after Ebola-related restrictions reduced pilgrim numbers, hitting sales for vendors and service providers. Health & Supply: A Mission Cry shipment finally reaches Uganda with Bibles and seminary materials, supporting ongoing distribution efforts.

Ebola Update: WHO cut suspected Ebola cases in DRC and Uganda to 116 after hundreds were ruled out, with 330 confirmed in DRC and 9 confirmed in Uganda, as scientists push experimental treatments and vaccines. Kenya-US Quarantine Fight: Kenya’s high court extended a halt on a planned 50-bed US Ebola quarantine at Laikipia Air Base and ordered disclosure of the deal terms, amid protests that turned violent. Uganda Finance: Uganda’s inaugural sovereign Sukuk gained High-Quality Liquid Assets status from Bank of Uganda, boosting liquidity appeal ahead of launch. UCC Policy: Uganda’s telecom regulator UCC moved to push lower smartphone taxes, aiming to accelerate digital inclusion as older networks phase out. Agribusiness: Government plans an online coffee traceability system for export compliance, while Seeds of Gold Farm Clinic launched to modernize farming and cut post-harvest losses. Trade & Finance: ITC and Equity Group signed an MoU to expand trade finance and market access for coffee, leather and creative firms across East Africa. Investment: Pension managers urged to shift more capital into real estate as Uganda’s pension sector grows.

Ebola & Trade/Travel Disruption: Uganda’s border with DR Congo tightened as the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak worsens, with Africa CDC reporting over 1,100 suspected cases across DR Congo and Uganda; KLM also suspended Uganda flights as travel curbs hit crews, while the World Cup travel spotlight adds pressure on public health readiness. Vaccine Race (Funding): CEPI pledged about $60m to speed Ebola vaccine development, including Moderna’s work and Serum Institute of India manufacturing Oxford’s candidate for clinical trials. Uganda Business & Food Prices: Matooke prices surged sharply in Tooro, Ankole and Kigezi amid drought and market pressures, squeezing household budgets and trader margins. Agribusiness & Climate: Uganda Breweries (UBL) invested over Shs372m to restore the Namananga forest reserve via planting 80,000 indigenous seedlings with NFA and partners. Governance & Eligibility: Parliament’s cabinet vetting is being clouded by a dual citizenship eligibility row, raising legal questions for ministerial nominees. US Visa Processing: The US plans to cut Africa visa-processing missions from nearly 50 to 20 hubs, likely increasing costs for Ugandan applicants.