As the Ebola outbreak threatens communities in DR Congo and Uganda, an international response worth hundreds of millions of dollars is racing to stop the virus from spreading further.
Documents released by the US Department of State on June 5, 2026, show an emergency network of governments, health workers and volunteers working across borders to contain the outbreak.
The US announced nearly $38m on June 5 as additional funding, bringing direct State Department support to over $200m. This comes on top of $350m already allocated for Ebola response and humanitarian aid in DR Congo, Uganda and South Sudan, making the US the largest financial contributor.
According to a circular from the Office of the Spokesperson, Thomas Tommy Pigott, the Department of State is working with the US CDC, Uganda and DR Congo governments, and humanitarian agencies to strengthen surveillance, treatment, prevention and community engagement.
A significant portion of the funds is targeting disease detection at airports and border crossings to prevent cross-border transmission.
In DR Congo, the International Organization for Migration has delivered thermo-scanners and infection prevention materials to airports and strategic points. In Uganda, IOM has deployed over 100 health screeners and data clerks at 13 official entry points.
Dr. Wilson Musone, a health expert in Buliisa district, said border surveillance remains one of the most effective tools for containing Ebola in regions with frequent cross-border movement.
‘Substantial investments are being made in water, sanitation and hygiene interventions. These are crucial because Ebola spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids, making hygiene and infection prevention essential,’ Dr. Musone said.
In DR Congo, UNICEF has distributed infection prevention supplies to three Ebola treatment centres and 28 high-risk health facilities.
World Vision says it has reached over 400,000 people through door-to-door campaigns, church gatherings and market outreaches, and trained nearly 400 volunteers on Ebola detection and prevention.
Ishameal Baguma, a health science specialist, noted that misinformation and community resistance have historically complicated Ebola response, making public awareness key.
Momentum Integrated Health Resilience is training over 1,500 healthcare workers, teachers, religious leaders and community leaders in Goma and border zones to identify symptoms and educate communities.
Dr. Mugenyiyi Henry said burial management is one of the most sensitive aspects, since the virus remains infectious in the dead. US-funded teams are supporting safe and dignified burials while respecting cultural practices and educating communities.
To improve diagnosis, FHI 360 has deployed a testing machine to Mongbwalu in DR Congo to reduce confirmation time. The DR Congo Ministry of Health said rapid diagnosis allows early treatment and faster isolation of cases.
At treatment facilities, International Medical Corps has trained 125 frontline workers on detection and infection prevention, and supported clinics that have screened over 540 people. The World Food Programme is providing food to patients, caregivers and health workers in treatment centres.