Protect Goma Families from Mpox Outbreak

1. Background and Project Rationale The city of Goma, particularly the Himbi area, is facing a rapid spread of Mpox. To date, more than 234 confirmed cases have been reported in Goma and Karisimbi. This situation poses a serious threat to families living in densely populated neighborhoods characterized by poverty, limited access to health services, and lack of reliable information. Displaced populations living in overcrowded and fragile conditions are especially at risk. Without urgent and coordinated action, the virus could spread uncontrollably and overwhelm the local health system. 2. Overall Project Objective The project “Protecting Goma Families from Mpox” aims to reduce Mpox transmission through a rapid, inclusive, and community-driven response focused on prevention, awareness, and protection of the most vulnerable populations. 3. Specific Objectives • Raise community awareness in Himbi on Mpox transmission and prevention • Strengthen community capacity through health education • Provide hygiene kits to the most vulnerable households, including displaced families • Promote safe practices such as handwashing, personal hygiene, and physical distancing • Support local health authorities in identifying and referring suspected cases 4. Key Activities • Community outreach campaigns using megaphones in targeted neighborhoods • Broadcasting prevention messages through local radio and social media platforms • Organizing community health education sessions • Distribution of essential hygiene kits • Coordination with local health facilities for community follow-up The project is currently in the identification phase of trainers and learners to ensure effective and context-appropriate implementation. Field activities are scheduled to begin in November 2025. 5. Target Population • Families living in the Himbi area • Internally displaced populations • Women, children, and residents of high-density settlements • Community leaders and health volunteers 6. Budget and Funding Status • Total project budget: USD 50,000 • Funds raised to date: USD 0 Through a strategic partnership with GlobalGiving, we are confident that the fundraising goal will be achieved. This collaboration provides international visibility, financial transparency, and access to a global community of committed donors who support high-impact humanitarian initiatives. 7. Expected Results and Impact • Increased community knowledge and awareness of Mpox • Reduced risk of transmission at household and community levels • Improved protection of vulnerable families through access to hygiene kits • Strengthened community resilience against current and future disease outbreaks In the long term, this project will contribute to building a healthier, informed, and more resilient community—an essential foundation for stability and safety in Goma. 8. Call to Donors We make a strong and heartfelt appeal to donors, partners, and supporters to stand with us in responding to this public health emergency. Every contribution—no matter the size—helps deliver life-saving information, protect families, and curb the spread of Mpox in a high-risk area. Together, with your support and the partnership of GlobalGiving, we can reach our goal and make a real difference on the ground. 9. Acknowledgments We extend our deepest gratitude to all individuals, organizations, and partners who believe in this initiative. Thank you to those who have already supported, promoted, or committed to this project. Your solidarity brings hope to families in Goma. Together, we protect lives. Together, we act now.

Stop Mpox, Protect Goma Families

Project Summary

The “Protect Goma Families from Mpox Outbreak” project aims to protect vulnerable families in Himbi, Goma, North Kivu, from the rapid spread of the Mpox virus. In a context marked by poverty, mass displacement, and a fragile health system, this humanitarian initiative acts on the frontlines to inform, educate, and equip those most at risk.

Context and Rationale

In recent months, Mpox has been spreading rapidly across Goma, with more than 234 confirmed cases reported in the Goma and Karisimbi areas. Families living in overcrowded and informal settlements lack proper information and the means to protect themselves. Internally displaced people, living in extreme poverty without access to clean water or health services, are particularly vulnerable.
Without swift and coordinated intervention, the virus could spread uncontrollably and overwhelm the already fragile local health system.

Overall Objective

To protect vulnerable families in Goma—especially displaced and high-risk households—by reducing Mpox transmission and strengthening community resilience against future outbreaks.

Specific Objectives

• Conduct mass awareness campaigns through megaphone outreach, local radio, and social media.
• Distribute essential hygiene kits to the most vulnerable households.
• Promote safe hygiene and prevention practices (handwashing, isolating suspected cases, cleaning shared spaces).
• Collaborate with local health authorities to identify cases early and limit community transmission.

Methodology and Key Activities

1. Community Sensitization: Mobile teams will use megaphones to deliver prevention messages across streets and markets in Himbi.
2. Proximity Communication: Local radio programs and social media campaigns will reach broader audiences with practical prevention tips.
3. Direct Support to Vulnerable Families: Distribution of hygiene kits (soap, disinfectants, buckets, masks) along with education on proper usage.
4. Local Collaboration: Working closely with community leaders, health committees, and local medical structures to coordinate an effective response.

Expected Impact

• Significant reduction in Mpox transmission within targeted communities.
• Improved public health knowledge and preventive behavior among families.
• Decreased vulnerability among displaced populations.
• Stronger foundation for future epidemic preparedness in Goma.

Estimated Budget

The total estimated budget for this project is USD 50,000.
These funds will cover awareness campaigns, logistics, hygiene kit procurement and distribution, and coordination activities.
So far, no funds have been raised yet, but through our partnership with GlobalGiving, we are confident we will reach our goal and deliver life-saving support to Goma’s families.

Call for Solidarity

We are making an urgent appeal to donors, partners, and friends who believe in the power of humanitarian action.
Every contribution—no matter the size—can save lives and help prevent the spread of a deadly disease in a region already suffering from multiple crises.
Your support will allow us to distribute hygiene kits, train families, and protect children from Mpox in Goma.

Together, with GlobalGiving and thanks to your generosity, we can build a safer, better-informed, and more resilient community.
We warmly thank all those who have already contributed and who continue to believe in the importance of local, human-centered action.