Ebola Epidemic Ends in Uganda, But Situation Worsens in Neighboring Congo

Uganda has officially declared its Ebola epidemic over, reporting only 20 cases and two deaths. However, the crisis is far from resolved, as the situation continues to escalate in the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

The Ebola outbreak in the DRC is now the second deadliest in history. As of August 27, 2026, the Congolese government reported over 2700 deaths and more than 5600 confirmed infections. Marie Roseline Belizaire, the WHO's director for emergency preparedness in Africa, stated that transmission remains highly active, and while the acceleration has slowed, the trend has not yet been reversed.

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Transmission of the disease remains very active. We have slowed the acceleration, but we have not yet reversed the trend.

Despite challenges, there have been improvements in contact tracing and testing, and virus analyses have not shown any signs of mutation, which is considered positive news. However, a significant funding gap threatens the ongoing efforts. Belizaire highlighted a $30 million deficit for logistical operations, including the delivery of medical supplies and personal protective equipment to the hardest-hit areas.

"Without investment without delay, we risk halting the momentum we have achieved," Belizaire warned. The WHO is urging for immediate funding to sustain the progress made and to effectively combat the virus's spread in the DRC, where the epidemic continues to outpace containment efforts.

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Without investment without delay, we risk halting the momentum we have achieved.