The United Nations is providing crucial support to national health authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) through established Ebola treatment centers, case management, surveillance efforts, and essential medicine supply. According to Congolese officials, over 90% of reported cases are concentrated in the Ituri province, with infections also detected in North and South Kivu. The response has been hampered by attacks on frontline workers during safe burial procedures, alongside rumors and mistrust that continue to undermine public health measures.
Preventive Measures in Uganda
Meanwhile, in Uganda, the UN is backing government-led initiatives to contain the outbreak under national coordination structures. With technical guidance from the World Health Organization (WHO), authorities are conducting contact tracing, surveillance, infection prevention measures, and public awareness campaigns. Uganda has expanded screenings at 31 priority entry points, including Entebbe International Airport. Rapid response teams and mobile laboratories have been deployed to strengthen the monitoring of travel and cross-border movements. UN agencies, including UNICEF, IOM, and UNHCR, continue to support community outreach, screening, and surveillance efforts to prevent further spread of the virus.
Millions Displaced for Decades in East and Southern Africa
A new analysis by the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) reveals that refugees in East and Southern Africa have been displaced for approximately 16 years. The analysis, utilizing recorded data from 2001-2025, projects that 6.4 million refugees and asylum seekers will reside in the region by the end of 2025. Many refugees have sought safety in neighboring countries, fleeing conflict and instability, particularly from nations like Sudan, South Sudan, and Somalia. “Asylum saves lives, but after living in uncertainty for close to 16 years, refugees need more than assistance; they need hope, opportunities, and a road map,” stated Mamadou Dian Balde, UNHCR’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa.
Growing Vulnerability of Refugee Children
Children are among the most affected. Refugees registered before the age of five remain displaced for an average of over 18 years, often spending their entire childhood in uncertainty before entering adulthood. “No child should have to grow up with a future clouded by uncertainty. An entire generation of refugee children is starting adulthood in exile,” Balde added. UNHCR warns that prolonged displacement risks creating generations dependent on humanitarian aid and calls for increased support to expand opportunities for refugees to return home safely, access education and employment, and rebuild their lives with dignity.
UN Calls for Calm in Somalia Amidst Escalating Political Tensions
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed concern over the renewed violence in Somalia, following reports of intense gunfire in the center of Mogadishu. According to news outlets, former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire alleged an attack by government forces ahead of planned protests. The Secretary-General underscored the urgency for all stakeholders to return to a dialogue environment and establish a roadmap that preserves the progress Somalia has made in recent years while ensuring the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure. He urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint, avoid actions that could fuel further violence, and resolve political differences through peaceful dialogue.
Warning of Past Crisis Repetition
The UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) stated that it and its international partners had repeatedly warned of the risk of repeating the political crisis seen in 2021 due to disagreements surrounding the electoral roadmap. The mission noted these warnings went unheeded and called on Somali leaders to prioritize national interests and resume negotiations that concluded on May 15. International partners added they stand ready to support and facilitate any renewed dialogue.
