The head of the World Health Organization (WHO), Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has appealed to armed groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to declare a ceasefire. This urgent call comes as the country grapples with an escalating Ebola outbreak, hindering the efforts of health workers to reach affected populations and control the spread of the disease.
UN agencies have been actively supporting the DRC and neighboring Uganda since May 15th to contain the outbreak. The current crisis is caused by the rare Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, for which there is no specific treatment.
As of Wednesday, the DRC has reported over 900 suspected cases, with 105 confirmed cases and 10 confirmed deaths. Uganda has registered seven confirmed cases and one fatality.
WHO’s Commitment to the DRC
In a direct message to the people of the DRC, particularly those in the Ituri province, which is the epicenter of the crisis, Tedros reaffirmed the WHO’s unwavering solidarity and commitment. “We are working under the leadership of the Government of DRC, together with all relevant partners, united around one goal: to stop this outbreak and protect your communities,” he stated. He emphasized the coordinated and committed approach of all involved, saying, “No one is working alone. No one is working at cross purposes. We are coordinated, we are committed, and we are here.”
Echoes of Past Challenges
This marks the 17th time the DRC has faced an Ebola outbreak since the virus was first identified in 1976. Tedros recalled the most extensive outbreak, which spanned North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri provinces from 2018 to 2020. He noted the immense difficulties faced during that period, including armed conflict, displacement, disrupted supply routes, and constant threats to health workers, alongside deep-seated mistrust among communities. “Ebola is not new to me personally,” Tedros remarked, referencing his 14 visits to North Kivu during that complex epidemic.
The Heavy Burden in Ituri
Tedros highlighted the striking similarities between the current challenges in Ituri and those faced in the past. Ituri province accounts for approximately 90 percent of the reported cases, with smaller numbers in the Kivus. He acknowledged the immense burden carried by the people of Ituri, stating, “You are already carrying so much: malaria, hunger, insecurity, and the daily struggle to keep your families safe. And now Ebola. It is not fair, and I will not pretend otherwise.” He also stressed the critical role of young people in combating the outbreak by engaging with friends and families to break the fear and silence that enable the virus to spread.
Support for Frontline Health Workers
Addressing the health workers in Ituri, whom he described as “the backbone of this response,” Tedros assured them of WHO’s support. He recognized that regional instability, characterized by conflict and displacement, exacerbates the challenges of reaching those in need and ensuring the safety of healthcare providers. “This is one of our greatest challenges. We cannot do this work if those who are trying to help are prevented from doing so or put in danger,” he candidly stated, adding that WHO is collaborating closely with partners to access communities.
Direct Appeal for a Ceasefire
Tedros made a direct plea to all warring factions in the region: “Please, declare a ceasefire. Even briefly. Even just enough to let health workers through.” He underscored the tragic reality that lives are being lost to Ebola unnecessarily, with children falling ill and families suffering. “No cause, no conflict, no grievance is worth condemning innocent people to death from a preventable disease,” he asserted. He implored, “A ceasefire, even a temporary one, would save lives. I urge you, I implore you: give us the space to help the people who need it most.”
Addressing Anger and Mistrust
The WHO chief also acknowledged the presence of anger and mistrust within some communities, expressing understanding for these sentiments. “Trust must be earned, it cannot be assumed,” he stated. “We have not always done things correctly. But I promise you, we are here to learn as much as we are here to help.” He noted that while most previous Ebola outbreaks in the DRC were caused by the treatable Zaire virus strain, the current outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain.
Hope and Collective Action
Despite the absence of approved vaccines or treatments for the Bundibugyo strain, Tedros expressed optimism about the potential for collective action. “There is much we can do together to prevent the spread of this virus and save lives,” he insisted. He emphasized the importance of early supportive care in treatment centers and urged individuals to come forward promptly, stating, “Coming forward early can make the difference between life and death. And everything we do, we will do with you.” WHO teams are actively on the ground and are committed to remaining until the outbreak is contained. “And when this outbreak is over, we will not quietly disappear,” Tedros promised. “We will not forget you. We will stay, and we will keep working with you to build health systems that protect every person in every community.”
