Norway Boosts WHO’s Ebola Response Fund with NOK 50m Amid DR Congo Outbreak CITY, DR Congo – In response to the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda, Norway has announced a substantial contribution of NOK 50 million to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Health Contingencies Fund. This move aims to bolster the WHO’s ability to respond swiftly to the crisis, which involves a rare strain of the virus with no approved vaccine or specific treatment.
The WHO has already disbursed USD 3. 9 million from the fund to support the response efforts.
The urgency of the situation is heightened by the high risk of the virus spreading further, especially considering the severe humanitarian situation in the region, with over 26 million people facing acute food insecurity. Despite challenges such as conflict, large population movements, and weak government control, Congolese health authorities have demonstrated extensive knowledge and relevant experience in combating Ebola outbreaks.
The African Union’s public health agency, Africa CDC, and the WHO have launched a coordinated regional response to break the chains of transmission. Norway’s Minister of International Development, Åsmund Aukrust, highlighted the importance of immediate response in curbing the outbreak’s spread, emphasizing that early intervention saves lives and enhances global safety.
The fund’s capacity to release resources within 24 hours is crucial in preventing the disease from spreading further. Norway’s contribution, which accounts for more than 46% of the fund’s financing in 2025, is part of its broader commitment to health services in humanitarian crises.
The donation also reflects the nation’s dedication to international health security and its role as a leading contributor to global health efforts.
As the Ebola outbreak unfolds, the WHO and its partners must ensure that the donated funds are allocated efficiently and transparently to maximize their impact on containing the virus and saving lives. KICKER: The timely and effective use of the donated funds will be crucial in preventing the disease from spreading further and alleviating the humanitarian crisis in the region.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: reliefweb
Source: Government of Norway
