Congo Reopens Bunia Airport Amid Ongoing Ebola Outbreak
After completing their rounds in the isolated red zone to monitor patients, provide care and ensure sanitation, a Doctors Without Borders (MSF) doctor removes their personal protective equipment (PPE) during decontamination in the undressing and disinfection area at the Ebola Treatment Center (ETC) in Munigi on June 2, 2026. (Photo | AFP)
Bunia: Authorities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo have reopened Bunia Airport despite the continuing Ebola outbreak in parts of the country. The airport, located in Bunia, the capital of Ituri Province, has resumed operations to facilitate humanitarian and medical response efforts.
The decision was taken by the country's aviation authorities, who said that keeping the airport operational is essential for transporting medical supplies, healthcare personnel, and resources needed for Ebola containment measures.
The airport had previously faced restrictions amid concerns about the spread of the virus. Humanitarian organizations and international health agencies had reportedly expressed concerns that disruptions to air services were affecting relief operations and the movement of medical teams.
Following the reopening, authorities have implemented stringent health and safety measures under the supervision of the World Health Organization. All arriving and departing passengers will undergo health screenings, including temperature checks and assessments for symptoms commonly associated with Ebola, such as fever, severe headaches, and muscle pain.
Special medical teams have been deployed at the airport, and isolation facilities have been established nearby to accommodate individuals who display suspected symptoms of the disease.
The reopening of Bunia Airport is expected to support international health workers operating in Ebola-affected areas by improving access to critical supplies, including vaccines, lifesaving medicines, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
Meanwhile, large-scale vaccination campaigns and public awareness programs continue across affected regions under the guidance of the World Health Organization and national health authorities. Neighboring countries, including Uganda and Rwanda, have also strengthened monitoring and health surveillance measures along their borders to prevent cross-border transmission of the virus.
Health officials have emphasized that continued vigilance and strict adherence to preventive measures remain essential to containing the outbreak and protecting public health.
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