Goma: The World Food Programme (WFP) is calling for increased international support for the Ebola response in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), emphasizing the need for food aid in addition to medical treatment.
According to African Press Organization, the WFP stresses that the Ebola outbreak, currently the fastest on record, requires a comprehensive approach that addresses not only the health crisis but also the severe food insecurity exacerbated by ongoing conflict and displacement in the region.
WFP Country Director for the DRC, David Stevenson, highlighted the dire situation in Ituri province, the epicenter of the outbreak, where more than 500,000 people are on the brink of starvation. The classification scale used by humanitarians indicates that these communities are just one step away from mortality due to hunger. Mr. Stevenson noted that food assistance is critical for enabling people to adhere to health protocols necessary to combat Ebola effectively.
The WFP has been actively involved since the outbreak was declared on May 15, battling logistical challenges to deliver food aid to remote areas. Despite these efforts, Stevenson expressed frustration over the lack of sufficient international support for food assistance, which he considers essential in the fight against Ebola. He urged the international community to increase financial support and resources to help end the epidemic.
Stevenson shared his experiences from visiting Ebola treatment centers, where he witnessed the positive impact of combining medical care with adequate nutrition. He recounted seeing a woman cured of Ebola smile as she left the center, underscoring the crucial role of food support in recovery. However, he pointed out that many affected individuals never reach treatment centers, highlighting the need for more comprehensive support, including food aid, across the region.
The WFP's call for action underscores the necessity of integrating food assistance into the Ebola response strategy to ensure the health and well-being of affected populations. The organization continues to advocate for a well-resourced and coordinated response to address both the medical and nutritional needs of communities battling the outbreak.