On 4 September 2025, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) Ministry of Health declared an outbreak of Ebola virus disease in Kasai province. The outbreak poses a significant threat to sexual and reproductive health services in the Bulape health zone, where 10 maternity wards are now at risk of disruption.
UNFPA is working in coordination with the Ministry of Health, World Health Organization (WHO), World Food Programme (WFP), and local health and protection partners to strengthen infection prevention and control (IPC), safeguard women and girls, and ensure continuity of essential services.
UNFPA, in collaboration with its implementing partner, Caritas Kananga, has developed a comprehensive response on IPC, protection from sexual exploitation and abuse, emergency obstetric and neonatal care, and community mobilization and engagement. The strategy targets maternity ward providers, pregnant women, and various community groups, including youth and women's associations.
UNFPA has mobilized an initial US$200,000 for urgent response activities and is appealing for an additional US$1.5 million to respond to the crisis.
