United States announces additional $242 million support for Ebola response in DRC and Uganda
The funding, developed in collaboration with Congress, is aimed at strengthening regional efforts to contain Ebola and prevent further international spread, with the protection of Americans and preventing the virus from reaching the US homeland identified as a key priority.
WASHINGTON — The United States Department of State has announced plans to provide an additional $242 million to support Ebola response and preparedness efforts in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda, alongside humanitarian assistance linked to the outbreak.
The funding, developed in collaboration with Congress, is aimed at strengthening regional efforts to contain Ebola and prevent further international spread, with the protection of Americans and preventing the virus from reaching the US homeland identified as a key priority.
The latest commitment adds to more than $512 million already announced by the State Department to support Ebola response activities in affected and at-risk countries.
Through implementing partners, the funds have been directed towards critical interventions including disease surveillance and detection, patient isolation and treatment, border and point-of-entry screening, strengthening health facilities, and community engagement to address misinformation and build public trust.
According to the State Department, its support has enabled 8.6 million health screenings across affected and high-risk countries and reached more than one million people with Ebola prevention and risk communication messages.
The assistance has also supported more than 180 health facilities in Ebola-affected areas and contributed to the direct operation of 12 specialised treatment facilities in the DRC for the isolation and care of Ebola patients.
In addition, nearly 300 metric tonnes of essential supplies have been procured and distributed, including personal protective equipment, water, sanitation and hygiene materials, as well as infection prevention and control supplies.
The US support has further strengthened Ebola diagnostic capacity through 11 operational laboratories across the region, improving the ability of health authorities to quickly detect and respond to cases.
The Department of State said continued investment in preparedness, early detection and community cooperation remains essential in stopping Ebola outbreaks and protecting communities both in Africa and globally.
