UN chief condemns ‘indifference’ as Ebola cases mount in DR Congo

The United Nations secretary-general has condemned global indifference toward the escalating Ebola crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), as the number of confirmed cases surpasses 5,600 and fatalities exceed 2,700 since the outbreak began in mid-May. The WHO estimates that the disease has slowed its spread but has not yet reversed its trajectory. With 500 new cases reported weekly, the humanitarian response remains critically underfunded, with only 48 percent of required resources secured. Current funding levels are projected to last just weeks rather than months, as the epidemic continues to expand beyond containment efforts. The situation in the DRC is compounded by ongoing instability, with displacement affecting millions and weakening public health systems. In Ituri province, over one million people have been forced from their homes, and more than 12 million individuals in the broader region require urgent humanitarian assistance. Security challenges further complicate the response, as more than 40 healthcare workers have died and treatment facilities have faced attacks. Teams working to curb the outbreak must navigate both the virus and armed conflict, with some communities remaining inaccessible due to ongoing tensions. Efforts to engage local communities have gained momentum, with notable participation from cultural figures and social media personalities. Renowned Congolese artist Lokua Kanza, serving as a UNICEF ambassador, has urged the public to adopt preventive measures through a video shared on the agency's social media platform. Similarly, musicians such as the Wedy duo and Drigo Eboma have released songs aimed at curbing the spread of the virus. Fifteen influencers, each boasting over 100,000 followers, have leveraged their platforms to educate younger audiences on infection control. Religious leaders have also played a key role, with over 50 faith-based figures in Ituri province receiving training on preventing transmission and addressing misinformation. In addition to grassroots initiatives, the UN has trained approximately 30 former combatants in prevention strategies and case identification. These individuals are now deployed to high-traffic areas near Ituri to disseminate critical health information within local communities. This approach reflects a broader strategy to integrate diverse sectors, religious, artistic, and civic, in the fight against the outbreak. Meanwhile, preparations are underway in neighboring Burundi, which remains at heightened risk due to its geographic proximity to the DRC and frequent cross-border movement of people. UN agencies are supporting Burundian authorities in strengthening surveillance at border checkpoints, deploying thermal scanning technology, and training medical personnel, including nurses and community health workers, as well as journalists. These steps aim to ensure early detection and rapid response should the virus reach Burundi. In a separate development, health officials from the United Nations and partner organizations announced the conclusion of the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in Uganda. The declaration followed 42 consecutive days without a new confirmed case, marking the end of an epidemic that had previously caused significant concern. This milestone underscores the effectiveness of coordinated international efforts in managing outbreaks, though it does not diminish the urgency of the situation in the DRC, where the battle against Ebola continues amid complex socio-political and security challenges.