The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has called for a balanced approach to the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, which the World Health Organization designated a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on May 17, 2026. The outbreak remains confined to limited regions, and the WTTC maintains that international travel risks are minimal at this stage. However, it cautions that overstated responses could destabilize tourism across Africa, where 54 countries rely heavily on travel for economic support and where health systems vary widely.
Authorities in affected regions have repeatedly stated that the outbreak is localized, and sweeping restrictions could unfairly penalize destinations that pose no threat. Gloria Guevara, the WTTC’s president and CEO, emphasized that the industry must base decisions on evidence rather than panic. She noted that Ebola remains concentrated in specific areas and that current travel risks are low. According to Guevara, the sector is now better equipped to handle health crises than in previous years.
The lessons learned from COVID-19 have improved the industry’s crisis preparedness. The WTTC, in partnership with governments and health organizations, established the Safe Travels protocols to ensure travel safety during health emergencies. These guidelines, covering hygiene practices, respiratory precautions, and selective screenings, have allowed travel to continue without widespread disruptions. The WTTC argues that a similar, fact-based strategy should be applied to the current situation.
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The WTTC has commended the Africa CDC, national health agencies, and the WHO for their collaborative efforts in managing the outbreak. While recognizing the severity of the situation, the organization insists that responsible travel remains possible, protecting both visitors and the livelihoods of tourism-dependent communities. The council urges travelers to consult official health advisories for their destinations and to avoid spreading unverified information, which could worsen unnecessary alarm.
By advocating for a measured response, the WTTC seeks to prevent broader economic harm that could result from exaggerated measures. The organization stresses that maintaining a steady approach, grounded in science and transparency, will better safeguard both public health and the stability of Africa’s tourism sector.
