LM International responds to Ebola outbreak in DR Congo

LM International is scaling up its emergency response in eastern DR Congo, supporting frontline hospitals, strengthening infection prevention, and mobilising communities, churches, and the private sector and public in Sweden and Norway to raise additional funds and help contain the Ebola outbreak. 

LM International is closely monitoring the new Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, recently declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern by the World Health Organization. LM supports several key hospitals in the region, including Pinga, Panzi, and Kyeshero, which are playing a central role in frontline preparedness and response efforts. These hospitals are already scaling up prevention measures, staff protection, and case management capacity as suspected cases emerge in the region, increasing the urgency of the response. At Kyeshero Hospital, two suspected cases have already been identified, increasing urgency. 

With around 246 suspected cases and 80 deaths reported, and cases emerging in eastern DRC, the risk of rapid spread is high due to insecurity, population movement, and limited healthcare infrastructure.

'The spread of infection is moving quickly. We are now mobilising support from churches and the general public in Sweden and Norway to raise additional funds and help contain the outbreak,' says Christophe Sacko, Regional Director for West and Central Africa at LM International.

A key focus for LM International is the role of local churches, which run the supported hospitals and are deeply trusted within communities in eastern DRC.

'Faith continues to guide local behaviour and action, and should not be overlooked as a powerful force in shaping responses, influencing health practices, and building trust during a crisis. These networks are essential in providing key health services, spreading information and providing both practical and emotional support. Leaving no one behind', says Dr. Josephine Sundqvist, Global CEO of LM international. 

This response also requires bringing in the private sector and fostering a coordinated cross-sectoral approach among key stakeholders to strengthen the overall effectiveness and reach of the intervention. 

LM International is also actively raising awareness, supporting community engagement and screening efforts, and co-developing an innovative digital outbreak tracking system with its established partner EGOV to improve response coordination. LM International is working closely with health authorities, the World Health Organization (WHO), United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and other partners to ensure an effective and timely response.