I would first like to thank my colleagues in the private sector and government who have supported national efforts to prevent Ebola from spreading to Rwanda. I would also like to send my best wishes to our sister countries as they work tirelessly to reduce suffering due to the Ebola epidemic. 

I wish to offer some information to the public regarding Rwanda’s policy on Ebola prevention to help facilitate international travel.

The recent instructions that we have given to not allow anyone who has been in Guinea, Liberia, Sierra Leone or Senegal within the last 22 days to board Rwanda-bound flights or enter the country by any means of transport, except with a special waiver, has nothing to do with nationality.

Rather, this is because anyone who has been in those countries could potentially be a carrier of Ebola to any destination, including during an asymptomatic incubation period (21 days maximum).

These instructions do not prevent nationals from returning home. Returning compatriots fall into two strict categories, which are determined by their clinical status.

For the first category – if a Rwandan has been in any of the aforementioned countries and is sick at the time of travel, then they are advised to postpone their travel. They should first treat themselves for their own health and recovery, and also for the health and safety of anyone that they may be in contact with. I remind you that anyone who has been exposed to the Ebola virus has great potential to transmit Ebola to all those that they may come into contact with, including their dear ones and family.

For the second category – if a Rwandan wishes to return home from any of the aforementioned countries and has no signs of sickness – such as a fever, vomiting or any other Ebola-like signs – they will be systematically quarantined up to 22 days after leaving the Ebola-exposed country. These are guidelines that have been developed out of immense precaution given the dire consequences of Ebola.

In no way are these instructions designed to impede the constitutional right of Rwandans to enjoy freedom of movement to and from Rwanda. However, it is our constitutional obligation to protect people living in Rwanda, compatriots travelling to and from Rwanda, their families, and anyone who they may come into contact with.

I urge all of us to remain vigilant and consistent in our preparedness to prevent the threat of the Ebola disease that has already caused too much suffering in our continent. Life is too precious.

The writer is the Minister for Health.