French Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, visited Bunia, the capital of Ituri province in the Democratic Republic of Congo, on October 3, 2026. During his visit, he met with local authorities and health workers to assess the situation on the ground in the region, which is currently facing the 17th Ebola outbreak recorded in the country. Barrot expressed his support for the Congolese authorities and the Ebola response teams.
Barrot emphasized the need for sustained vigilance to prevent a resurgence of the Ebola virus. He highlighted the importance of continued prevention efforts and combating factors that contribute to the spread of the disease. The minister's visit comes as health authorities and their partners continue to work to contain the outbreak and prevent its spread to other areas. He praised the commitment of Congolese authorities, UN agencies, humanitarian organizations, and healthcare professionals.
The French government has provided significant support to Ebola response efforts in the DRC. According to available information, France has allocated €13.4 million to combat Ebola between January and July 2026. Barrot announced that he intends to propose a strengthening of humanitarian financing during upcoming budget discussions, indicating France's commitment to eradicating Ebola in eastern DRC.
The Ituri region faces multiple challenges, including health, humanitarian, and security issues. Barrot's visit was seen as a signal of international support for the region. During his visit, he engaged with local actors to gain a better understanding of the situation on the ground. The minister's message of support and vigilance was conveyed to the population of Ituri, who are urged to remain alert to the risks posed by Ebola.
The Ebola outbreak in Ituri province has prompted a robust response from health authorities and their partners. The situation remains a concern, with efforts focused on containing the outbreak and preventing its spread. Barrot's visit highlighted the importance of collaboration and coordination among stakeholders to effectively respond to the crisis.
The French minister's engagement with local stakeholders and health workers reflects the country's commitment to supporting Ebola response efforts in the DRC. The visit also underscores the need for sustained international support to address the complex challenges facing the region. By maintaining vigilance and cooperation, the goal is to bring the outbreak under control and prevent future epidemics.
As the situation in Ituri province continues to evolve, the response efforts will require ongoing support and coordination. The visit by Jean-Noël Barrot serves as a reminder of the importance of international solidarity in addressing global health crises. The focus remains on containing the Ebola outbreak and strengthening the region's resilience to future health challenges.
Key points
- France has allocated €13.4 million to combat Ebola in the DRC between January and July 2026.
