Protect Uganda-DRC Border Communities from Ebola

Dear Donor,

Thanks to your generous support, Development Alert has been able to take Ebola prevention and awareness messages directly to vulnerable communities living in areas affected by cross-border movement between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The regional situation remains extremely serious. WHO reports that the Bundibugyo virus outbreak in the DRC is in a phase of intense transmission, while the outbreak has expanded geographically. Uganda has made significant progress in controlling its outbreak, but continued vigilance remains important because of population movement and the ongoing transmission across the border.

Through community outreach, Development Alert is helping residents understand the importance of early reporting, appropriate hygiene, avoiding contact with potentially infectious bodily fluids, and seeking care when symptoms occur. We are also emphasizing the importance of accurate information and encouraging community members to rely on health authorities and trained health workers rather than rumors circulating through informal channels.

These activities are particularly important for families, traders, transport workers, youth, community leaders, and other people whose daily activities may involve movement between communities.

For many residents, receiving reliable information from trusted community-based organizations provides reassurance and practical guidance during an uncertain period.

Your generosity is helping turn information into action. Thank you for enabling Development Alert to reach communities with messages that can protect families, reduce fear, strengthen preparedness, and contribute to the wider effort to prevent Ebola transmission.

Dear Donor,

Thanks to your generous support, Development Alert has continued strengthening Ebola preparedness and community awareness among vulnerable populations in communities connected to the Uganda–Democratic Republic of the Congo border.

The need for this work remains urgent. The DRC is experiencing its largest Ebola outbreak on record, with more than 5,000 confirmed cases and 2,378 deaths reported by mid-August 2026. The outbreak, caused by Bundibugyo virus, has expanded to six provinces and continues to experience intense transmission. Uganda, meanwhile, has contained its outbreak after recording 20 confirmed cases and two deaths.

In this challenging environment, Development Alert is helping communities understand how Ebola spreads, recognize possible symptoms, practice appropriate hygiene, and seek medical attention promptly when illness is suspected. Our grassroots engagement is especially important in communities where people frequently cross borders for trade, employment, family visits, and access to services.

We are also encouraging communities to avoid misinformation and stigma and to cooperate with health authorities and trained response teams. Early reporting and community trust are essential components of effective outbreak control.

Your generosity is helping bring preparedness information closer to families who may otherwise be difficult to reach. Every community conversation, awareness session, hygiene demonstration, and referral message contributes to stronger local resilience.

Thank you for standing with Development Alert. Your continued support is helping protect vulnerable communities and strengthen Uganda's preparedness while Ebola continues to affect communities across the border in the DRC.