Bunia, DRC sees EU‑backed Ebola response ramp up with new treatment centre

European Commission health and humanitarian chief Hadja Lahbib visited Bunia in Ituri province as the Democratic Republic of Congo confronts a fresh Ebola outbreak that began on 15 May. Upon arrival, health checks such as temperature screening and hand‑disinfection were already in place, and Governor‑General Johnny Luboya described the situation as "a war within a war" due to the coexistence of armed groups and the virus.

The new Ebola treatment centre at Nyakunde, operational for less than a week, houses 50 beds across two floors – confirmed cases on the lower level and suspected cases above – and is currently caring for about 27‑28 patients with staff working in three daily shifts. EU officials announced an additional €5 million in funding, adding to the €15 million already disbursed, and a EU‑run air bridge has delivered roughly 100 tonnes of medical supplies to support diagnostics, staffing and infrastructure expansion, including plans for 18 more beds and a childcare facility.

The response emphasises community sensitisation, strict hygiene protocols, and coordination between military authorities, health partners and local caregivers to accelerate case confirmation and treatment.