By WAKHUNGU ANDANJE
May 19, 2026| The African Union Commission (AUC) has expressed concern over the outbreak of the deadly Ebola virus disease in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda, warning of the growing risk of regional spread across the continent.
In a statement issued by AUC Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the commission acknowledged the swift response mounted by the affected governments, national health authorities and frontline health workers to contain the outbreaks despite difficult circumstances.
The chairperson also commended neighbouring countries for stepping up preparedness measures aimed at preventing cross-border transmission of the virus, specifically recognising efforts undertaken by South Sudan.
“The African Union stands in full solidarity with the peoples and governments of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda at this critical time. This continent has in the past overcome major public health challenges and through our unity, coordination and collective action, we shall overcome this one as well,” Youssouf said.
He added that the African Union was working closely with the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), member states, the World Health Organization (WHO), humanitarian partners and donors to coordinate a continental response to the outbreak.
“The protection of African lives and the safeguarding of health security remain our highest priority. We are calling upon all member states and partners to intensify support for preparedness, surveillance and rapid response efforts in affected and at-risk countries,” he said.
The continental body reiterated its commitment to strengthening Africa’s public health preparedness and response systems amid fears of further spread.
Africa CDC recently declared an Ebola outbreak in eastern DRC after authorities recorded about 246 cases and 65 deaths in Ituri Province, particularly in the areas of Mongwalu and Rwampara.
According to reports released by health authorities, preliminary laboratory tests conducted at the Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale in Kinshasa detected the Ebola virus in 13 out of 20 samples analysed.
Health officials have since intensified response measures and cross-border surveillance efforts with neighbouring countries following additional suspected cases reported in Bunia, the capital of Ituri Province.
Authorities in Uganda have also heightened monitoring and preparedness measures amid concerns over possible regional transmission of the virus.