Doctors Without Borders Congo

Doctors Without Borders in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Doctors Without Borders (Médecins Sans Frontières, MSF) has been a critical presence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for over a decade, responding to complex emergencies and delivering lifesaving medical care in some of the world’s most challenging environments. The organization’s teams are currently on the ground in the DRC, tackling a series of intertwined public health crises that threaten millions of residents.

Current Health Crises in the DRC

The country is facing multiple concurrent epidemics, including a severe measles outbreak, an ongoing Ebola epidemic in the east, and a sweeping cholera epidemic in the western regions. In addition, more than one million people have been displaced by communal violence in Ituri province, creating a dire need for humanitarian medical services.

A Raging Measles Epidemic

The DRC is experiencing the biggest measles outbreak in a decade. According to recent reports, thousands of children are being infected each month, and vaccination campaigns are struggling to keep pace with the rapid spread. MSF’s medical teams are conducting mass immunization drives in hard‑to‑reach communities, providing antiserum and supportive care to those who contract the virus.

Vaccination of children under five
Community education on measles prevention
Rapid response teams for outbreak hotspots

Ebola in Eastern DRC

In eastern DRC, the Ebola epidemic continues to pose a severe threat to public health. MSF’s outbreak response units are operating in isolation centers, ensuring safe burial practices, and conducting contact tracing. The organization also collaborates with local health authorities to strengthen laboratory capacity and improve case management protocols.

Cholera Sweeping the West

A cholera epidemic is sweeping down the western provinces of the DRC. MSF has established treatment centers equipped with rehydration solutions and antibiotics, and is working to improve water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure. The organization also runs community outreach programs to educate residents about cholera prevention.

Displacement and Conflict in Ituri Province

Communal violence in Ituri province has displaced more than one million people. These displaced populations often live in overcrowded camps where disease can spread rapidly. MSF’s humanitarian teams provide essential medical services, including trauma care, mental health support, and routine vaccinations, to protect vulnerable communities.

Challenging Medical Activities on the Ground

This video provides a glimpse into the challenging medical activities conducted by MSF staff in the DRC. It showcases the dedication of healthcare workers who navigate difficult terrain, limited supplies, and security risks to deliver care to those in need.