France has announced plans to enhance its support for combating Ebola in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), emphasizing the need for continued vigilance to prevent a rapid resurgence of the virus. This declaration was made by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot during his visit to the northeastern Congolese city of Bunia, a rare trip by a Western leader to the region.
During his visit, Barrot highlighted a recent laboratory-confirmed case of mpox identified in mid-September in Bunia. He noted that France had already allocated €13.4 million (approximately $15.1 million) toward Ebola efforts between January and July of this year. Furthermore, Barrot indicated his intention to propose additional humanitarian funding for Ebola during the forthcoming French budget discussions.
France’s response to the Ebola outbreak has involved humanitarian aid, medical research, and the PRISM programme, which was launched during President Emmanuel Macron’s visit in 2023. In a significant development, a national humanitarian conference scheduled for October 6 in Paris will include discussions focused on Ebola.
Addressing concerns about the virus, Barrot stressed that while Ebola might seem distant to some individuals or political leaders, it can re-emerge swiftly if precautions lapse. He underscored the responsibility to prevent such resurgences. Barrot also commended the efforts of Congolese authorities, United Nations agencies, humanitarian organizations, and medical personnel for successfully containing the epidemic and stopping its spread to major urban centers within Congo and beyond.
Responding to questions about the potential spread of Ebola following a reported case in France, Barrot reassured that there is no need for fear or alarm. He emphasized that the primary focus must remain on combating the epidemic at its source.
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