MONUSCO steps up Ebola prevention efforts in Ituri

The United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) is bolstering its support for Ebola prevention activities in the Ituri province. In Jipi, located in the Bahema Nord chiefdom, peacekeepers recently engaged local communities in awareness campaigns focused on crucial prevention measures against the deadly virus.

During these sessions, residents received vital information about the primary signs of Ebola, effective prevention strategies, hygiene practices, and the importance of promptly reporting suspected cases to health services. To foster stronger ties between the UN mission and the community, MONUSCO also organized a sports event that brought together local youth and peacekeepers, promoting interaction and mutual understanding.

Local authorities have lauded MONUSCO's initiative, reaffirming their dedication to disseminating prevention messages throughout the population. The engagement aims to equip communities with the knowledge needed to combat the spread of Ebola and protect themselves.

Further underscoring the mission's commitment, the MONUSCO Force Commander, General Ulisses de Mesquita Gomes, visited Mongwalu on July 21. Mongwalu hosts a temporary operational base for the mission. His visit was focused on evaluating the measures implemented by peacekeepers to support Congolese health authorities while simultaneously continuing operations to safeguard civilians in the region. MONUSCO reiterated its dedication to assisting Congolese authorities in managing health risks and ensuring the protection of Ituri's population.