WHO calls for Congo ceasefire amid Ebola outbreak; Uganda closes border

The World Health Organization has urged an immediate ceasefire in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, a region already embroiled in conflict with various armed groups, to combat a worsening Ebola outbreak. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that the region faces a "catastrophic collision between disease and conflict," with the outbreak overwhelming health response capacity in the Ituri province.

“

The east of the DRC is now facing a catastrophic collision between disease and conflict.

Armed clashes are exacerbating the crisis by causing mass population displacement and facilitating the virus's spread in overcrowded camps. "We cannot gain community trust or isolate the sick while bombs are falling," Ghebreyesus wrote on social media, imploring belligerents to agree to a truce. The specific strain, Bundibugyo, lacks an approved vaccine or treatment and was recently declared an international public health emergency by the WHO.

Meanwhile, Uganda has announced the immediate closure of its border with the DRC to prevent the virus from spreading into its territory. The country has already recorded seven cases since the outbreak was officially identified on May 14. While the border is closed, exceptions are made for humanitarian operations, authorized Ebola response teams, food and goods transport, and security forces, all subject to strict health controls.

“

We cannot gain community trust or isolate the sick while bombs are falling.

Authorities in eastern Congo have reported over 900 suspected cases and more than 220 suspected deaths. The Congolese Ministry of Health confirmed 101 cases and is investigating over 3,000 potential contacts. The provinces of Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu are most affected, with some areas remaining under the control of armed groups.

“

Uganda will temporarily close the border with the DRC with immediate effect.