Tayebwa Sounds Alarm on Human-Driven Disease Outbreaks

Addressing the Rising Threat of Zoonotic Diseases in the Greater Virunga Landscape

The Greater Virunga Landscape (GVL), a region spanning Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is home to one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet. However, this rich natural environment also poses significant risks, as it has historically been the source of deadly disease outbreaks, including Ebola, Marburg, and even the global spread of COVID-19. These events have underscored the urgent need for coordinated efforts to prevent future health crises that could threaten both human populations and wildlife.

In response to these growing concerns, a new regional initiative has been launched with a multi-million dollar investment aimed at addressing the increasing interactions between humans and wildlife in the GVL. This project, known as the Strengthening One Health Preparedness, Prevention, and Response in the Greater Virunga Landscape (SOHGVL), is backed by the World Bank’s Pandemic Fund and represents a critical step toward safeguarding public health and preserving the region's fragile ecosystems.

The SOHGVL project, which spans 31 months and is valued at $24.5 million, targets 11 high-risk districts in Uganda. These areas are particularly vulnerable due to deforestation and population pressures, which are driving human settlements closer to wildlife habitats. This encroachment increases the likelihood of zoonotic spillovers—diseases that jump from animals to humans—and heightens the risk of future pandemics.

Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Hon Thomas Tayebwa, emphasized the importance of cross-border collaboration during the project’s launch. He pointed out that wildlife does not recognize political boundaries, and therefore, seamless cooperation between countries is essential to address shared health challenges. Tayebwa also highlighted the rapid population growth in Uganda, which is leading to increased pressure on land and contributing to human-wildlife conflicts. As communities move closer to protected areas, the risk of disease transmission rises significantly.

The SOHGVL project adopts a One Health approach, an integrated strategy that combines human, animal, and environmental health to tackle the root causes of emerging pandemic threats. This model recognizes that the health of people, animals, and the environment are interconnected and must be addressed together to prevent future outbreaks.

During a panel discussion, Dr. Mohammed Shamsuddin, Senior Animal Production and Health Officer at the FAO Regional Office for Africa, stressed the importance of this holistic approach. He explained that without healthy animals and sustainable food systems, human health risks increase, especially in fragile ecosystems like the GVL. The FAO plays a crucial role in linking wildlife, livestock, and food systems, which are key components in effective pandemic prevention and response.

In Uganda, the project will focus on districts where human-wildlife interaction is most intense, such as Bundibugyo, Kasese, Kabale, Kisoro, and Ntoroko. The goal is to work closely with local communities to reduce the risk of zoonotic spillovers by promoting sustainable natural resource management. This approach not only protects public health but also safeguards the region’s biodiversity, including the endangered mountain gorillas.

By introducing tools and systems to detect, prevent, and respond to health threats at their source, the Greater Virunga Project offers a timely and strategic intervention. It aims to ensure the long-term well-being of communities that are on the frontlines of human-wildlife conflict, while also protecting the unique ecological heritage of the region.

This initiative represents a significant step forward in the fight against zoonotic diseases and highlights the importance of international cooperation, scientific innovation, and community engagement in building resilience against future health crises.