Although the African continent seemed to be somewhat spared by the coronavirus, cases of contamination and deaths have finally also occurred in Kinshasa. The government has declared a state of health emergency and placed the capital under lockdown.
It's difficult to predict how the situation will develop in the Congo, but one thing is certain: if the epidemic breaks out in the country, it will be a real disaster, as the health system is completely deficient and cruelly lacking in health staff and equipment.
To survive, the country has no choice but to focus on prevention. Our partners Etoile du Sud and Codic can draw on the experience they have acquired in the fight against Ebola. They stood out for their expertise in raising awareness and mobilising the population, while combating the rumours and false information that were circulating.
Our partners are aware that there is not a minute to lose. They are monitoring the situation closely and are currently busy organising their health campaigners. Using social media, they are preparing their branches in the various provinces and drawing up clear prevention messages to be delivered door-to-door. They are also trying to gather adequate means of protection for their activists.
Finally, they are once again reminding the authorities of the vital importance of ensuring access to basic services and infrastructure for the population. How can you fight covid-19 if you don't have access to water?
What can you do?
Follow our healthcare workers on WhatsApp
1. Add Viva Salud to your contacts on your mobile phone with the number 0470 82 72 22.
2. Send us a message with your name and “I'd like to register”.”
3. We will keep you informed.
Support our partners' fight with a donation
You can also make a donation by bank transfer to the account number
Viva Health: BE15 0010 4517 8030 | BIC: GEBABEBB, with the message ‘donate to fight corona’.
Support our partners' fight with a monthly donation
Take part in the campaign
Find out more about our «Support the fight against corona worldwide» campaign:
- how our partners are fighting the coronavirus
- what you can do
- why we need a strong public health system
