PADCO Brings Ebola Prevention to Communities with Support from CCIH
In Uvira, preventing Ebola depends on accurate information reaching people where they live, worship, work, and gather; and it’s crucial that the information comes from people they trust.
With a microgrant supported by CCIH donors, Programme d’Actions pour le Développement au Congo (PADCO) trained local leaders and healthcare workers to carry clear Ebola prevention messages into their communities. The campaign took place in June and July in the Uvira Health Zone, particularly in Kiliba ONDS and Kiliba Centre.
PADCO trained 20 people, including community and religious leaders, neighborhood leaders, and healthcare workers. Participants learned about Ebola transmission, symptoms, safe burial practices, and their role in helping communities identify and report possible cases.
The training focused on three urgent messages: report suspected cases early, wash hands regularly, and avoid direct contact with people who may be sick. The leaders committed to sharing these messages within their neighborhoods, churches, and other community networks.
From Markets to Churches and Beyond
PADCO’s outreach did not stop with the training. Community workers continued holding educational discussions in neighborhoods, markets, schools, and churches. Mobile loudspeakers were also used to reach people in markets, residential areas, and funeral gatherings. Face masks, disinfectant, and posters were distributed as part of the campaign.
Local radio extended the campaign’s reach across the city and territory of Uvira. Ebola awareness messages aired three times each week, helping community members understand how the virus spreads, why suspected cases should be reported quickly, and how safe burial practices can protect families and neighbors.
Countering rumors was another important part of the response. PADCO encouraged people not to stigmatize those who are sick and emphasized that early reporting can help a person receive care while protecting the wider community.
Facing Down Challenges
The campaign took place amid serious challenges. Insecurity limited the team’s ability to travel in some neighborhoods and villages. False information spread quickly through social media, and many residents were experiencing fatigue after confronting multiple public health threats, including mpox and cholera, in addition to Ebola.
PADCO is encouraging the trained leaders to remain active in community surveillance, discourage unsafe burials at home, and lead by example. The organization hopes future outreach can reach villages that have not yet received clear information about Ebola prevention.
PADCO summarized the importance of this locally led approach in its report: when each leader helps protect their neighborhood, avenue, and church, the chain of transmission can be broken.
CCIH is grateful to the donors whose contributions made this rapid local response possible. Their support helped PADCO equip trusted leaders to bring practical, lifesaving information directly into their communities.