Nairobi, Kenya — The United Nations has sounded the alarm, predicting that the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) could exact a heavy toll on Africa’s economy, potentially costing the continent up to $3. 6 billion and displacing hundreds of thousands of jobs.
The outbreak, marked by the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, has infected 1,307 individuals and resulted in 377 fatalities since its declaration on May 15, 2026.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) representative in the DRC, Damien Mama, has warned that the health crisis could evolve into a profound development emergency if not addressed swiftly.
The UNDP has presented three potential scenarios, with the most optimistic estimating a $1 billion impact on the DRC’s GDP, while the most dire could see a $3. 6 billion loss and 328,000 job losses across Africa.
The virus’s rapid spread has raised concerns about its potential to cross borders, with smaller outbreaks reported in Uganda.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has escalated its response, delivering emergency supplies and equipment to the region.
Additionally, the WHO has convened meetings with expert groups to evaluate potential vaccines and treatments for the Bundibugyo ebolavirus.
The Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) has expedited the development of three investigational vaccines targeting the Bundibugyo ebolavirus, aiming to advance them towards clinical trials swiftly.
The UNDP’s rapid socioeconomic assessment highlights that the Ebola crisis extends beyond health, triggering severe socioeconomic disruptions, particularly for women.
The assessment predicts that the outbreak could push nearly one million more people into poverty and incur billions in economic losses across Africa.
As the situation unfolds, the international community is closely monitoring the efficacy of response efforts and containment measures, recognizing their critical role in averting a full — blown development crisis across Africa.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: aljazeera
Source: Reuters
