World must move faster on Ebola response for DR Congo: UN relief chief
UN Urges Accelerated Action to Tackle Ebola in DR Congo
World must move faster on Ebola – UN relief chief Tom Fletcher emphasized the urgency for accelerated action to curb Ebola’s spread in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), stating this on Thursday.
Outbreak Spreading Beyond Ituri Province
Despite Ituri province remaining the epicenter of the crisis, Mr. Fletcher highlighted that conflict and displacement are accelerating the virus’s spread beyond its borders.
Statistics and Regional Impact
Since the DRC announced the outbreak on 15 May, the Bundibugyo strain has infected over 1,700 individuals and caused the deaths of 600. Neighboring Uganda has reported 20 confirmed cases, underscoring the regional threat.
Compounding Humanitarian Challenges
Mr. Fletcher noted that the outbreak’s impact is intensified by persistent conflict, food insecurity, population displacement, inadequate infrastructure, and limited medical resources in the DRC. These factors contribute to one of the most intricate humanitarian crises globally.
UN’s Immediate Response
To address the situation, the UN allocated $60 million in May, aiming to expedite containment efforts in the DRC, bolster preparedness in nearby regions, and strengthen trust within local communities.
Collaborative Efforts with WHO
The World Health Organization has partnered with the UN’s peacekeeping mission, MONUSCO, to deliver critical medical supplies and establish isolation and treatment facilities in affected areas.
System-Wide Coordination Initiated
The UN’s Inter-Agency Standing Committee—comprising heads of major aid organizations—has launched a System-Wide Scale-Up to manage the disease. Senior Ebola Coordinator Julien Harneis has been deployed to support containment initiatives.
“We know how to stop Ebola and we’re implementing our strategy,” he said.
Barriers to Effective Response
Conflict-induced closures and movement restrictions continue to hinder humanitarian efforts, disrupt health services, and impede essential trade, yet they have not halted the disease’s progression.
“Any delay will be measured in Ebola deaths and in lives lost to the wider humanitarian consequences of this outbreak,” Mr. Fletcher said.
Emphasis on Community-Centered Solutions
Mr. Fletcher stressed the importance of locally driven, community-focused approaches tailored to address the needs of all genders. He also called for expanded support to humanitarian programs and increased investment in preparedness measures.