Nyakunde health authorities request MONUSCO's continued presence for Ebola response

Health officials in Nyakunde, Ituri, are urgently calling for the sustained presence of the UN peacekeeping mission, MONUSCO, to bolster the ongoing response to the Ebola virus. The request comes as a gradual return of patients and staff to the Nyakunde Ebola treatment center has been observed.

Local sources indicate this return is a direct result of MONUSCO establishing an operational base in Marobo on July 16. This security enhancement followed recent violence linked to the death of a militia leader. Alongside the Congolese armed forces (FARDC), UN peacekeepers are conducting regular patrols to safeguard both the population and vital health structures.

Dr. Charles Kashindi, the director of the Nyakunde center, stressed the critical importance of MONUSCO's continued presence for the Ebola response. "We are really happy about the presence of MONUSCO, but they must be permanent. We need the permanence of MONUSCO," he stated, emphasizing that their ongoing support is essential for uninterrupted patient care.

The security provided by MONUSCO and the FARDC has also made health workers and patients feel safer. This is particularly significant as several Ebola treatment centers, including those in Nyakunde, Mongwalu, and Rwampara, have previously faced disruptions due to insecurity and hostile demonstrations. Such incidents severely compromise patient treatment and efforts to eradicate the virus.

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We are really happy about the presence of MONUSCO, but they must be permanent. We need the permanence of MONUSCO.