ADF Attacks in Eastern DRC Complicate Ebola Response

In the Mambasa territory of Ituri province, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, recent attacks attributed to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) have complicated efforts to combat an ongoing Ebola outbreak. The ADF, an Islamist group originally from Uganda and affiliated with the Islamic State, has been active in the region, according to reports from local civil society groups.

This week, several communities in the Mambasa territory, located in the southwest of Ituri province, reported incursions by the ADF. These attacks have disrupted the response to the Ebola epidemic in the area, which has been ongoing since early 2023.

The ADF's activities have led to increased insecurity in the region, making it difficult for health workers to access affected communities and implement necessary containment measures. The group's presence has also caused displacement of local populations, further exacerbating the challenges faced by response teams.

Local authorities and international health organizations have expressed concern over the situation, emphasizing the need for enhanced security measures to facilitate the Ebola response. The United Nations and other partners are working with the Congolese government to address the security challenges and improve the overall response to the epidemic.

**Context:** The ADF's activities in eastern DRC have long been a source of instability, with the group carrying out attacks and displacing civilians. The current situation highlights the complex interplay between security and health crises in the region, where ongoing conflicts can hinder efforts to combat disease outbreaks.