DR Congo: Preventation saves lives

The Ebola threat is growing – now more than ever, rapid information, protective measures and strong local health services are crucial

Concern is growing

June 2026 — The Ebola crisis in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo continues to worsen. Since the outbreak of the rare Bundibugyo variant a month ago, the number of cases has been rising rapidly. According to today’s report by the Reuters news agency, more than 1,000 confirmed cases and over 250 deaths have now been reported. Fears of further spread are growing.

Communities in the eastern part of the country are particularly affected, where weak health infrastructure, large-scale population movements, and the difficult security situation make it even more difficult to contain the disease. We are currently supporting our local partner, Centre Hospitalier CHAHI, in implementing preventive measures, raising awareness, and strengthening local health services. The project is funded by Aktion Deutschland Hilft.

The goal is to better protect people, spread knowledge about Ebola, and support local health workers in preparation for an emergency.

The project’s initial activities have begun. Health workers are working directly in the communities to inform the public about protective measures, hygiene, and how to properly handle potential suspected cases.

Already achieved:

  • Ten communities with targeted awareness-raising measures.
  • 12 schools, where children, teachers and families are being informed.
  • eight health facilities that are being supported in preparing for possible Ebola patients.

In total the project reaches ca. 200,000 people in the CHAHI area and surrounding communities.

One of the biggest challenges on the ground is the shortage of urgently needed hygiene and protective supplies. Many healthcare facilities lack the necessary equipment to reliably protect staff and patients.

That is why the project provides essential preventive supplies. These include, among other things:

  • Handwashing kits,
  • Protective masks and gloves,
  • Disinfectants and bleach
  • Thermometers for early identification of fever,
  • Information material for communities and health facilities.

Simple hygiene measures, in particular, can make a decisive difference when it comes to breaking chains of infection early on.

Another priority is the training of local health workers. Staff at medical facilities and dedicated community members are trained to identify potential suspected cases of Ebola early on and to implement the appropriate protective measures.

After all, every hour counts in the fight against an epidemic. Well-prepared local teams can help identify cases more quickly and prevent further spread.

In addition to medical measures, information plays a key role. In many communities, uncertainty and rumours lead to fear and make it more difficult to deal with the disease.

Through direct conversations in the communities and information campaigns, CHAHI provides clear and reliable information:

How is Ebola transmitted?

How can you protect yourself?

When should you seek medical assistance?

How can the community work together?

Knowledge creates security – and helps to save lives.

The Centre Hospitalier CHAHI has been providing healthcare in the region for many years. The local team understands the challenges on the ground and works closely with the communities.

With experience, trust, and direct access to the people, CHAHI focuses its efforts where help is needed most.

But the challenges remain significant. More communities need support so that prevention, education, and protective measures can take effect in a timely manner.

With your donation, you’ll help equip healthcare workers, inform the public, and contain the spread of Ebola.

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People in the east of DR Congo need protection from Ebola.

Your donation makes important protective measures possible: Information, protective equipment and training.


Together, we can assist local helpers in the fight against the epidemic.
Help to save lives.

LandsAid has been working closely with the Centre Hospitalier CHAHI for more than seven years. This local partner has extensive experience in providing medical care and in previous Ebola-related efforts in the region.

The Ebola virus is one of the most dangerous infectious diseases and can spread very quickly. Typical symptoms include sudden onset of high fever and other severe manifestations of the disease. Transmission occurs primarily through direct contact with infected bodily fluids or sick individuals. The current outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo involves the so-called Bundibugyo variant of the virus. To date, there is neither an approved vaccine nor a specific treatment available for this form of Ebola. Medical care is therefore currently focused on alleviating symptoms, preventing complications, and providing the best possible support to those affected.

In addition to the health threat posed by Ebola, the fragile security situation also presents a major challenge. Numerous armed groups are active in eastern DRC, hampering humanitarian aid and medical efforts. The provinces of North Kivu and South Kivu are particularly affected, as the M23 rebel group currently controls large areas there.

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2026-07-06T08:20:55+00:00
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