Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The World Food Programme (WFP) emphasizes that addressing the Ebola crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) requires the inclusion of food assistance, especially amid ongoing conflict, displacement, and food insecurity.
According to David Stevenson, WFP Country Director for the DRC, the current outbreak caused by the rare Bundibugyo species has recorded over 5,500 cases and 2,642 deaths within the first 100 days. The epicentre, Ituri province, is severely affected by both the virus and persistent challenges related to hunger and instability.
Stevenson noted that more than 500,000 people in the region are classified at IPC 4, indicating emergency levels of hunger just short of starvation. This high food insecurity complicates efforts to control Ebola, as families struggling to feed themselves face difficulties following critical health protocols.
He stressed that food assistance must be integrated into the community Ebola response to be effective. Despite tough logistics, such as impassable roads in remote rural areas, WFP continues to deliver aid but calls for greater international support and more Ebola treatment centres.
The DRC’s Ebola response is among WFP’s top operations alongside crises in Ukraine, Gaza, Sudan, and South Sudan. Stevenson expressed concern over the limited international reaction to urgent funding needs for food and health interventions in eastern DRC.