A measles outbreak in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is raising serious concern among health officials. The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) reports over 12,000 infections and at least 180 deaths, mostly in North and South Kivu provinces.
These regions continue to suffer from conflict and instability. Ongoing violence has made it difficult for health workers to deliver vaccines and respond effectively.
“If our leaders can guarantee safety, I will personally go to the area to deliver medicines and vaccines,” said Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director-General of Africa CDC, during a virtual media briefing on Thursday.
The health emergency is not limited to measles. Mpox testing in the Kivu region remains extremely limited. Only 18/percent of suspected cases are being tested, largely due to restricted access and insecurity on the ground.
Meanwhile, South Sudan is also battling a major health threat. A cholera outbreak has led to nearly 800 deaths, with one million suspected cases reported so far. Vaccination campaigns in the country have stalled due to unsafe conditions, according to Africa CDC.
“These crises show how conflict and weak infrastructure can turn health challenges into disasters,” Dr. Kaseya said.
The agency also addressed the issue of declining international support for African health systems. Dr. Kaseya said that nearly a dozen donor countries have reduced their contributions. This has caused funding for healthcare across Africa to fall from $81 billion to around $25 billion.
In response, Africa CDC has proposed a new plan focused on raising local funds and finding creative financing solutions. “I’ve reached out to African philanthropists and business leaders to back this approach,” Dr. Kaseya noted.
He emphasized that Africa cannot rely solely on foreign donors to protect its people. “It’s time for African countries to invest in their own health future,” he added.
Africa CDC is now calling for stronger cooperation among regional leaders and safe humanitarian access. The agency says quick action is needed to stop the spread of disease and save lives in both DRC and South Sudan.