Johannesburg, South Africa — The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has issued a report projecting a staggering economic impact of up to $3. 6 billion on the African continent due to the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda.
The report outlines various scenarios, with the worst — case scenario predicting significant financial strain on the region.
The outbreak, which began in May 2026, has been attributed to the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, a virulent variant without a licensed vaccine or specific treatment.
As of June 2026, the disease has infected over 1,300 individuals, with 377 confirmed deaths in the DRC alone.
The remote and densely populated areas affected, coupled with ongoing insecurity and high population and trade movements, have exacerbated the situation.
The UNDP’s report indicates that in the best-case scenario, the epidemic could be contained within the two affected countries, with the DRC’s GDP potentially suffering a $1 billion loss.
However, if the disease spreads to neighboring countries such as South Sudan, Rwanda, or Angola, and coincides with the ongoing fuel crisis resulting from the war in Iran, the cost could balloon to $3. 6 billion, with job losses reaching 328,000 across the continent.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the outbreak a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC), emphasizing the need for a rapid and comprehensive response.
The WHO is collaborating closely with the governments of the DRC and Uganda to strengthen surveillance, contact tracing, clinical preparedness, and management, as well as the delivery of supplies and community engagement.
The U. S. Department of State, in coordination with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is contributing to the response efforts.
The Department of State has highlighted the collaborative efforts between the U. S. Government and other partners in addressing the Ebola outbreak in the DRC and Uganda.
The Ebola outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the challenges African countries face in responding to health crises.
The potential economic cost underscores the need for continued investment in health systems and preparedness measures across the continent.
As the situation evolves, it is crucial to monitor the spread of the disease and its economic impact, with the international community remaining vigilant and supportive of efforts to contain the outbreak and minimize its impact on the African continent.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Africanews
Source: Rédaction Africanews
