By Zachery Onyango | Project Leader
Dear supporter,
The continuing Ebola emergency in the Democratic Republic of Congo is placing enormous pressure on families and communities. As of 3 September, the DRC had recorded 6,342 confirmed cases and 3,072 deaths. The outbreak has become one of the largest Ebola emergencies ever recorded and continues to challenge communities, health workers and response organizations.
Uganda, in contrast, has successfully ended its 2026 Ebola outbreak after completing the required 42-day monitoring period. This achievement demonstrates the value of strong surveillance, early detection, community cooperation and rapid response.
Development Alert is using the lessons from Uganda’s response to strengthen preparedness among vulnerable families living in communities connected to the Uganda–DRC border.
Our community outreach focuses on practical health education. Families are encouraged to understand the importance of early reporting, hygiene, seeking appropriate healthcare and following guidance from trained health authorities. We also emphasize compassion and the importance of reducing stigma against affected families.
Schools remain important platforms for reaching children and caregivers. Teachers and community leaders can reinforce health messages and help children share accurate information with their families. Markets and transport stages provide additional opportunities to reach traders, drivers, boda boda riders and travelers.
The field motorcycle allows outreach teams to reach households and villages that may otherwise be difficult to access. It supports household visits, community meetings, delivery of educational materials and rapid follow-up.
Our goal is not to create fear. It is to ensure that families have reliable information and know what to do when a health concern arises.
Uganda’s success proves that community preparedness can save lives. Continued investment will help preserve that achievement while strengthening vulnerable communities facing risks from the continuing DRC outbreak.
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