Africa CDC calls for humanitarian corridor in DRC following attack

The Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has urged the formation of a humanitarian corridor in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in light of a recent deadly assault on civilians in Cantine-Aloya, North Kivu. The attack, attributed to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), resulted in numerous casualties and forced many patients and health workers to flee for safety.

Africa CDC expressed deep sorrow for the deceased and solidarity with the injured and displaced communities. The organization highlighted the urgency of the situation, emphasizing that the Ebola outbreak response was already facing numerous challenges, including attacks on health facilities and the exodus of patients and health workers in search of security.

Africa CDC warned that any disruption to patient care, contact tracing, and disease surveillance during an Ebola outbreak would heighten risks for communities already grappling with immense difficulties. The Agency stressed the importance of allowing people to access treatment safely and health workers to deliver essential services without fear of violence, urging all parties to respect the protection of healthcare personnel as mandated by international humanitarian law.

Africa CDC reaffirmed its dedication to the people of DRC, pledging continued support to the Ebola response, disease surveillance, and community protection. The organization stressed that safeguarding community safety and the provision of life-saving health services is paramount.