Protect Uganda-DRC Border Communities from Ebola

Dear Donor,

The experience of Uganda’s 2026 Ebola outbreak demonstrated that rapid response can make the difference between containing an outbreak and allowing widespread transmission. Uganda successfully completed its 42-day countdown without a new confirmed case, confirming that the outbreak had ended.

Across the border, however, the Democratic Republic of Congo is facing an increasingly severe emergency. By 3 September, DRC authorities had reported 6,342 confirmed cases and 3,072 deaths. WHO’s latest situation assessment shows that the epidemic is continuing to move rapidly, with new cases being identified across affected areas.

Development Alert continues strengthening community-level preparedness so that potential health alerts can be communicated quickly. Community volunteers, local leaders and Village Health Teams remain important links between households and formal health facilities.

Our activities focus on helping communities understand the importance of early reporting and cooperation with trained health authorities. We continue encouraging residents to report unusual illnesses promptly rather than waiting for symptoms to become severe.

The field motorcycle remains particularly valuable for rapid response. In remote border communities, poor roads and long distances can delay intervention. Reliable transportation enables teams to conduct community visits, follow up alerts, support contact-tracing readiness and deliver prevention materials.

We are also working to reduce fear, stigma and misinformation. Communities that trust health workers are more likely to report concerns early and cooperate with response measures.

Uganda’s experience has shown that preparedness works. The DRC’s rapidly expanding outbreak shows why preparedness must never be abandoned after one country declares an outbreak over.

Through continued donor support, Development Alert is helping ensure that border communities remain connected, informed and ready to respond.