DR Congo: West and Central Africa: Latest Events at a glance (20–26 October 2026)

Republic of the CongoFlooding affects nearly 43,000 people in northern Likouala

The Government has launched an emergency response to assist nearly 43,000 people affected by severe flooding in Likouala Department, in northern Republic of the Congo. Floodwaters have submerged villages, damaged infrastructure and displaced thousands of people. Authorities have established an air bridge to deliver food, medicines and emergency supplies, complemented by river transport. Plans are also underway to relocate affected families and scale up humanitarian assistance.

NigerFire affects nearly 100 displaced households in Diffa Region

On 21 October, a fire broke out at an IDP site in N’Guigmi, in eastern Diffa Region, affecting approximately 100 households, according to preliminary reports. The incident has exacerbated the vulnerability of displaced families already facing precarious living conditions. Amid declining humanitarian funding and the onset of colder weather, affected households face heightened protection, food security and health risks. Urgent assistance is needed to address immediate needs and prevent further deterioration of living conditions.

Democratic Republic of the CongoViolence against health workers threatens Ebola response

Senior Ebola Coordinator Julien Harneis condemned the killing of a nurse involved in the Ebola response in Bafwasende, Tshopo Province, on 24 October. The health worker was reportedly attacked by protesters, while a school principal supporting the response was seriously injured. Separately, a health centre in Kisangani was looted, with medical supplies stolen and a health worker assaulted and temporarily detained. These incidents underscore growing concerns over violence and mistrust undermining the Ebola response, as confirmed cases approach 10,000 nationwide. The UN is engaging with authorities to strengthen the protection of health workers and facilities and ensure the safe delivery of essential services.

Cholera outbreak worsens amid critical water and sanitation gaps

More than 55,000 suspected cholera cases have been reported nationwide since January, with Tanganyika Province, in south-eastern DRC, particularly affected. All health zones in the province have reported cases, with over 6,300 infections recorded, nearly 1,000 more than during the same period in 2025. In Kalemie, treatment facilities are overwhelmed, while limited access to safe water and sanitation is fuelling transmission. Displacement sites hosting over 6,500 people have been affected, with more than 12,000 displaced people at risk. The UN and humanitarian partners are providing treatment, medical supplies and water chlorination, but additional resources are urgently needed to expand response capacity and improve access to safe water and sanitation.

Based on reporting by RELIEFWEB