A workshop was held in Beni, Nord-Kivu, on October 6, 2026, to equip media professionals with the necessary knowledge to effectively communicate on Ebola response efforts. The event, attended by around 40 journalists, aimed to enhance their understanding of the Ebola virus disease and its impact on communities. According to Trésor Mpunzu, head of the provincial communication and media division in Nord-Kivu, media professionals play a vital role in informing communities about response efforts, particularly during epidemics or health crises.
Mpunzu emphasized that media professionals have a critical role in building trust, combating rumors, and promoting community acceptance of response measures. However, he noted that several challenges hinder effective communication, including the spread of negative rumors on social media, community resistance, and mistrust of response personnel. These challenges have resulted in a deficit of community engagement in accepting response interventions. As a result, media professionals were urged to focus on risk communication and community engagement.
The workshop aimed to address the knowledge gap among media professionals, enabling them to provide accurate and informative reporting on Ebola response efforts. Mpunzu highlighted that the consequences of misinformation can be severe, leading to fear, anxiety, and uncertainty among communities. He stressed that media actions can either alleviate tensions and promote the adoption of preventive measures or exacerbate mistrust if not handled professionally.
The Ebola outbreak in Nord-Kivu has presented significant challenges, including community resistance and mistrust of response efforts. Mpunzu cited instances where family members have played a negative role in influencing community consent to public health interventions. The spread of misinformation has contributed to the stigmatization of patients and the fear of treatment centers.
The workshop is part of a broader effort to strengthen communication and community engagement in Ebola response efforts. By enhancing the knowledge and skills of media professionals, the initiative aims to promote accurate reporting and build trust among communities. This, in turn, can help to increase community acceptance of response interventions and ultimately contribute to the control of the outbreak.
According to the Congolese press agency, the workshop was organized to support the ongoing response efforts in Nord-Kivu. The province has been experiencing an Ebola outbreak, with reported cases and deaths. The response efforts have been hampered by community resistance and mistrust, highlighting the need for effective communication and community engagement.
The briefing for media professionals is a critical step towards improving the dissemination of accurate information on Ebola response efforts. By empowering media professionals with the necessary knowledge and skills, the initiative can help to promote a more informed and engaged community, ultimately contributing to the success of response efforts.
Key points
- Media professionals play a vital role in informing communities about Ebola response efforts and promoting community acceptance of response measures.
