UNESCO Rapid Assessment Aims to Strengthen Ebola Information Flow in DRC’s Ituri Province

Since 15 May 2026, Ituri Province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has faced a new Ebola outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo virus, the country’s 17th such event. UNESCO’s rapid assessment in Bunia interviewed 30 adults, including 14 women, to map how residents seek and trust information. Radio emerged as the primary, most trusted source, while health workers were key for detailed explanations of symptoms, treatment and vaccination. Social media, especially WhatsApp and Facebook, also played a role but were frequent venues for misinformation. Women tended to combine radio, word‑of‑mouth and digital platforms. Respondents highlighted a need for content in Swahili and Lingala, and for formats such as interactive radio, SMS, community sessions and illustrated materials. The assessment found that rumours—such as response teams spreading the virus or injections transmitting Ebola—initially influenced behaviour but could be countered when credible voices provided clear explanations. UNESCO will use these findings to build sustained links between community radio stations and health workers, launch interactive programmes that allow listeners to ask questions, and strengthen media capacity in risk communication and fact‑checking. These steps aim to reduce misinformation, improve community trust and support timely care during the current outbreak and future health emergencies.