DR Congo: Urgent Call for Safe and Inclusive Learning Amidst Ebola Outbreak BODY: KINSHASA, Democratic Republic of the Congo – August 17, 2026 – As the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) grapples with the deadliest Ebola outbreak in its history, a new call for action is being made to ensure the continuity of safe, inclusive, and protective learning for children affected by the epidemic in the East of the country, particularly in Ituri, SudKivu, and Nord-Kivu provinces.
The current situation is dire, with the outbreak declared in May 2026, occurring in a context already marred by armed conflicts, population displacements, poverty, weak infrastructure, and disrupted basic social services. Sources indicate that the response is taking place in areas characterized by insecurity, significant population movements, and limited access, which complicates surveillance, prevention, and the continuity of essential services. Children are among the most vulnerable populations, with the UNICEF estimating that approximately 2.
95 million children and adolescents under 18 years old, representing 54% of the population in the 51 health zones affected, are exposed to risks related to Ebola and the disruption of essential services. Over 150 children have already become orphans in the Ituri province.
The situation in the educational sector is particularly concerning.
As of May 2026, the education cluster in Ituri province estimated that 834 schools, with 29,543 students (including 15,083 girls and 14,460 boys) and 12,450 teachers, are exposed to serious risks from the Ebola virus. With only 160 water points available, half of which are non-functional, the educational system in the province is under severe strain, with a potential 30% dropout rate for the 2025-2026 school year. To address these challenges, ActionAid, with funding from ECHO, is implementing prevention and infection control measures in 140 schools, directly supporting 42,000 primary school students, communities, and health facilities in the Ituri, Nord-Kivu, Sud-Kivu, and Maniema health zones.
The call for action emphasizes the need to maintain or resume learning under conditions adapted to the epidemiological risk level. It is crucial that schools become spaces not only for learning but also for prevention, protection, psychosocial support, and guidance to essential services, while minimizing the risk of Ebola transmission.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: reliefweb
Source: ActionAid
