KINSHASA, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO — The Democratic Republic of Congo is addressing its 17th Ebola outbreak, declared on May 15, 2026, in the eastern province of Ituri. This recent epidemic has compounded an already fragile humanitarian situation, particularly concerning the protection of children.
A rapid assessment of knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding the Ebola virus disease (EVD) epidemic reveals a concerning spread of the disease to multiple health zones in Ituri, including Djugu, Irumu, Bunia Ville, and Mambasa.
The survey, conducted in June 2026, involved 252 child protection actors from various territories and health zones.
The results indicate a severely weakened protection environment due to the Ebola epidemic, exacerbated by insecurity, growing humanitarian needs, and social tensions. Child protection actors are expressing deep concerns about the impact on vulnerable children.
The survey also reveals that 15% of respondents have direct experience with children being separated from their families due to the epidemic. Child protection actors have highlighted the limited availability of resources and the overall preparedness of the response. Only 1% of respondents believe the current response is sufficient to protect children affected by the Ebola outbreak.
The Ebola outbreak has further weakened the protection environment for children, and a coordinated and comprehensive response is urgently needed to mitigate its impact.
The DRC’s complex humanitarian situation, marked by ongoing armed conflicts, mass displacements, climate shocks, and recurrent epidemics, has been further complicated by this outbreak. Humanitarian organizations, already stretched thin, are facing additional challenges in addressing the needs of affected children.
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has called for increased support to address the needs of children affected by the Ebola outbreak. “Access to education, health services, and protection measures must be prioritized. “.
The African Union and the United Nations have also expressed concern about the situation in the DRC and called for a coordinated international response. “We must act swiftly to support the DRC in its efforts to control the epidemic and protect its most vulnerable populations. “.
As the Ebola outbreak continues to unfold, child protection actors in the DRC are calling for urgent action to address the impact on children.
The situation remains critical, and the international community must step up its efforts to support the DRC in its response to this crisis.
The Ebola outbreak in the DRC serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by vulnerable populations in conflict — affected areas.
As the crisis deepens, the international community must prioritize the protection of children and ensure that their needs are met.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: reliefweb
Source: Child Protection Area of Responsibility
