Congo-Kinshasa: Response Must Outpace Spread of Ebola - UN Relief Chief

In a virtual briefing to member states, Tom Fletcher, the UN Relief Chief, warned that time is running out to contain the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Speaking alongside Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Fletcher emphasized that the fast-growing epidemic is now affecting six provinces, including regions with limited access due to insecurity and weak health systems.

The outbreak is disproportionately impacting women and children, leading to family separations and increased vulnerability to exploitation and trafficking. UN agencies and partners have activated a response, including operational hubs in Bunia and Beni, but more is needed. The revised 2026 DRC Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan requests $2.1 billion, with $300 million specifically allocated for Ebola-related activities.

Over $1 billion has been secured, but a $500 million funding gap remains. The international community must use its influence to keep the crisis on the global agenda, ensure safe access for humanitarian workers, and increase funding for both the Ebola response and the broader humanitarian operation.