Norway provides NOK 15 million to the Ebola response in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Press release | Date: 05/06/2026 | Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Norway is stepping up its efforts to address the Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and is providing NOK 15 million to support the response of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement in the region.

The outbreak is spreading rapidly in a conflict-affected area with weak health systems, and extensive humanitarian needs make the situation particularly serious.

'This is a serious outbreak that is developing rapidly in a highly vulnerable region. It is therefore crucial to intervene early with targeted efforts to contain the spread of the disease,' said Minister of International Development Åsmund Aukrust.

The funding will be channelled through the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), which plays a central role in the response in Central and Eastern Africa. The efforts will focus in particular on the DRC and Uganda, while preparedness in neighbouring countries will also be strengthened.

Rapid spread and a challenging context

The Ebola outbreak was confirmed in May and has already resulted in a high number of suspected cases in the DRC, while cases have also been reported in Uganda. The outbreak is occurring in areas affected by conflict, displacement and high cross-border mobility, increasing the risk of further spread.

'When disease outbreaks affect areas marked by conflict and weak health systems, the consequences quickly become more severe. This underlines the need for both a rapid response and long-term strengthening of preparedness,' said Aukrust.

Strengthening local and early action

The support to IFRC will help mobilise national Red Cross societies and their volunteers to carry out contact tracing, information activities, the implementation of safe and dignified burials, as well as infection prevention measures and psychosocial support for affected communities.

The broad presence of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement makes it possible to reach local communities that are otherwise difficult to access.

'Experience shows that early action and trust within local communities are crucial to bringing Ebola outbreaks under control. That is why we prioritise support to actors that are present on the ground and able to act quickly,' said Aukrust.

Part of a broader Norwegian effort

Norway is already contributing to the Ebola response through support to several international organisations and financing mechanisms that have mobilised resources to address the outbreak in recent weeks.

'This forms part of a broader Norwegian effort to strengthen global health preparedness and the capacity to respond to such outbreaks. Norwegian contributions, both through IFRC and other partners, support the nationally and regionally led response to this health crisis.

'At the same time, we are closely monitoring developments and continuously assessing the need for additional support,' said Aukrust.