Ebola: M23 Rebels Tighten Movement Restrictions in Eastern Congo

The AFC/M23 rebel alliance in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has announced fresh restrictions on movement in areas under its control as authorities step up efforts to prevent the spread of Ebola.

The new measures will suspend shared taxi services along the Goma–Kirumba road for one month from Saturday. 

Passenger boats operating on some routes across Lake Edward will also be temporarily halted. However, taxi-buses will remain allowed on the Goma–Kirumba route under health and safety measures, while trucks carrying goods will continue to operate.

The restrictions were introduced after two travellers from the government-controlled town of Lubero tested positive for Ebola after reaching a village under M23 control, according to a member of the health response team established by the rebel administration.

The development comes as Congo battles a rapidly expanding outbreak of the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola.