World Vision Statement on Health Workers Killed in DRC

Thursday, November 28, 2019

From Anne-Marie Connor, National Director World Vision Democratic Republic of the Congo:

"We are desperately sad to hear reports of the deaths of a number of Ebola aid workers who were killed in the line of duty – giving their lives to help vulnerable communities in eastern DR Congo combat Ebola.  This is an absolute tragedy and our hearts go out to their work colleagues, families and friends. 

Vaccinating those at risk of Ebola, the sharing of prevention messages and ensuring those infected get treatment are all vital components of the efforts by local and international staff to eradicate this deadly disease.  These health workers were in the frontlines of that effort and were working in areas that are prone to instability and sudden spikes in violence.  This is the commitment aid workers are making to try to get on top of this disease and those doing this work are to be considered humanitarian heroes. 

We have learned  that several staff were killed in the attack on the UN agency's base in Biakato, Ituri, although it is not  clear at this time who the staff were working with.  This is a time of great uncertainty in eastern DRC with aid agencies having had in the last several days to relocate staff.  This means anti-Ebola efforts are being suspended just as we were getting on top of the disease.  The longer work is hampered in this way the more chance that Ebola will once again spread putting the lives of children and communities in danger.  

We pray for all staff who are on the frontlines, that they are protected and can get back to work, aw well as the communities they work with.  We in particular pray for those who have lost loved ones and colleagues."

ENDS.

Editor’s note: Spokespersons available on request.