Guernsey helps the medical response to Ebola in central Africa

Tuesday, 16 June 2026 12:15

By Euan Mahy

Overseas Aid has given £50,000 to a UK charity for protective clothing as they work among Ebola victims in the DRC.

One month ago the World Health Organisation declared the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to be an international public health emergency.

Ebola is an often fatal virus that spreads quickly and there is already an outbreak in neighbouring Uganda. It has killed more than 100 so far.

Oxfam estimate the number to be infected, at more than 700, to be conservative and also have concerns about the quality of drinking water in the area of the outbreak.

Guernsey's Overseas Aid and Development Commission (OADC) has donated £50,000 to Christian charity Medair UK to be used for Personal Protective Equipment for its workers in the DRC at the centre of the outbreak.

Deputy Jennifer Strachan heads up the OADC and says everyone affected by the outbreak are putting up with loss, fear and hardship:

"This donation will fund essential PPE which will protect health and care workers, and those handling the deceased.

"These individuals are working under enormous pressure, in extremely difficult conditions, to prevent further spread.

"Their protection is paramount, and this investment will help prevent this from becoming a global crisis.

"Ebola is not just the DRC’s problem. Infectious diseases do not respect borders. This donation shows that our compassion and our solidarity will
extend beyond our shores at times of crisis.”