Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo – Attacks on Ebola health facilities are rising in eastern DRC, with serious concerns from the World Health Organization that the outbreak could escalate.
Recently, a group in Rwampara stormed a health center, demanding the bodies of loved ones who died from Ebola. This incident highlights growing tensions between healthcare workers and local communities. Just a day later, a tent set up by Doctors Without Borders in Mongbwalu was burned after a patient displaying Ebola symptoms died, prompting health workers to isolate the body.
ALIMA, an NGO involved in the response, reported that tensions flared during efforts to prepare the body for burial. Fear and mistrust of health protocols often drive these confrontations. Many locals believe that Ebola is part of a larger scheme, with some fearing that medical teams could be trafficking organs when they refuse to release bodies. One resident, Gloire Idriss, expressed frustration, saying, “Some people believe that Ebola is a business.”
Health Minister Roger Kamba emphasized the danger posed by Ebola victims’ bodies, urging safe practices for burials to prevent further spread. Cultural values complicate matters, as many families want to hold traditional rituals and touch their deceased loved ones. Lokana Jean shared his grief about not being able to say a proper goodbye to his daughter, who died of Ebola.
As of now, nearly 180 people have succumbed to the disease, and around 800 cases have been recorded, according to the Ministry of Public Health. Authorities have introduced measures like limiting public gatherings and banning body movements between areas to slow transmission.
Doctor Rodriguez Kisando noted that violence against treatment facilities is fueled by rumors and misinformation. “If accurate information is not shared fast, people will believe anything,” he warned, highlighting how quickly fear can turn into violence.
The challenge is growing as some patients leave treatment centers before completing their care, putting others at risk. As Kamba stated, “If sick people escape before they are cured, the disease will continue spreading. This is extremely serious.”
Amid these struggles, international aid has significantly decreased. Congolese authorities reported that many responses are now funded by the national treasury, leading to visible shortages. ALIMA highlighted that the resources for dealing with Ebola are severely lacking and called for more international support.
In response to the escalating outbreak, local officials are reminding residents to wash hands frequently, maintain distance from the sick, and trust the response teams. The Africa CDC has placed ten African nations on high alert, including South Sudan and Rwanda, while neighboring countries like Uganda and South Sudan have agreed to enhance cross-border coordination efforts to tackle the disease.
This growing outbreak and the violence related to it underscore the urgent need for trust between health authorities and communities, as well as increased support from the international community.
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News, Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
