There is an outbreak of the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and neighbouring Uganda, with the potential to escalate into a significant humanitarian and regional public health issue without timely international response. 

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared this outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the need for coordinated global response. 

This outbreak is occurring in one of the world’s most complex humanitarian settings. North Kivu, South Kivu and Ituri province, where the epidemic is spreading, is already experiencing protracted conflict between armed groups and the military. Communities face displacement, insecurity, and extremely fragile health systems, all of which significantly hinder outbreak containment and response efforts. 

Critically, there is currently no approved therapeutic or vaccine for the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, increasing the risk of rapid transmission and mortality. Cross-border movement between South Sudan, Uganda, and the DRC further heightens the risk of regional spread, with health authorities warning of potential escalation across the region. 

Communities already facing acute vulnerability are now confronting a life-threatening disease outbreak. Health facilities are under-resourced, access to care is limited, and humanitarian actors face significant operational constraints due to insecurity. 

The absence of key global actors from coordination mechanisms further risks weakening the effectiveness of the response at a time when strong international cooperation is essential. 

ACFID member agencies and their local partners are working in affected communities to respond to the outbreak, strengthen health systems, and support prevention efforts. However, additional resources are urgently needed to contain the spread and protect lives.

Donate Responsibly

Unrequested goods such as food, clothing and medicines sent to countries experiencing crises consistently end up in landfill. Unrequested goods block valuable space at ports and airports and can prevent vital aid getting through. Cash is fast, flexible, and is used to meet the immediate and changing needs of those affected.   

With cash donations goods can be sourced and purchased locally. This supports local businesses, keeps people in jobs, and stimulates the local economy.   

If you want your donation to have a long-lasting impact, consider donating cash. Find out more about how to donate responsibly at:  donatereponsibly.org.   

You can be assured that your support to any member listed below will meet identified needs on the ground. The standards by which ACFID members make appeals for donations are set by ACFID’s Code of Conduct. This includes a responsibility to provide clear information to their donors on the emergency and the work they are doing with affected communities.   

All ACFID member appeals below have been checked and meet Code of Conduct requirements. Find out more about the standards ACFID members adhere to.   

ACFID members responding