STATEMENT
Urgent Call for Coordinated Humanitarian Support in Response to the Ebola Outbreak in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo
Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
19 May 2026
Humanitarian Action for Africa (HAA) expresses deep concern over the rapidly escalating Ebola outbreak affecting eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), in a context already severely impacted by armed conflict, forced displacement, food insecurity, and weakened health systems.
According to available public health information, dozens of deaths and hundreds of suspected cases have been reported in affected areas. Preliminary laboratory analysis suggests that the outbreak may involve the rare Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, for which there is currently no licensed vaccine or approved targeted treatment.
The outbreak is occurring in communities already facing severe humanitarian vulnerabilities, including insecurity, repeated displacement, limited access to healthcare, deteriorating food security conditions, and weakened coping capacities.
Humanitarian Action for Africa warns that the public health emergency risks further exacerbating the already fragile humanitarian situation in conflict-affected communities across eastern DRC and neighboring areas.
In response to the evolving situation, HAA stands ready to support affected communities through integrated humanitarian interventions focused on:
- Community awareness and risk communication;
- Community-based surveillance and early warning support;
- Referral mechanisms for suspected cases;
- Support to frontline health facilities;
- Provision of essential medical supplies and infection prevention materials;
- Psychosocial support and anti-stigmatization activities;
- Emergency food and nutrition assistance for vulnerable households;
- Community-based WASH interventions aimed at reducing transmission risks.
HAA emphasizes the importance of locally led and community-centered approaches in responding effectively to public health emergencies in fragile and conflict-affected settings.
The organization calls upon humanitarian partners, donors, development actors, and the international community to urgently support preparedness and response efforts in order to prevent further deterioration of the humanitarian and public health situation.
Humanitarian Action for Africa remains committed to working in coordination with health authorities, humanitarian partners, and affected communities to support a rapid, inclusive, and dignified humanitarian response.
