In the early hours of May 17, 2026, the World Health Organization confirmed an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo—specifically in Ituri Province. At the Wildlife Conservation Network, we are familiar with this province. It is precisely where our Partners, the Okapi Conservation Project (OCP), do such important work to protect and restore one of Africa’s most iconic species—the okapi.
We were so relieved to hear from our Partners that their team in Ituri is safe. But the OCP needs your help to make sure that their staff, and the local communities that they work with every day, remain so.
The strain of Ebola currently present in Ituri Province is caused by the Bundibugyo virus, which is both rare and difficult to identify. There is currently no approved vaccine or treatment for this strain of Ebola, which makes prevention incredibly important. It is the only tool that the OCP and others in Ituri Province have.
To respond to the outbreak, the OCP is urgently working to raise $25,000—funds that will help ensure that essential information is communicated across communities, and secure essential protective supplies, including:
- Face masks
- Medical-grade disinfectant and chlorine solution for foot baths
- Latex gloves
- Personal Protective Equipment such as coveralls and shoe covers
- Handwashing stations, soap
- Hand sanitizer and re-fillable bottles
The Okapi Conservation Project team is already implementing biosecurity measures across their work areas. Given the nature of this virus they are not only protecting their own staff, but the communities they serve throughout the region.
Quote“The okapi, the forest, and the people of Ituri are deeply intertwined, and the health of this ecosystem depends on the health of the communities within it. We have been here through difficult seasons before, and we will see this through, with your support.” —The Okapi Conservation Project
We are proud of the entire team at the Okapi Conservation Project, and echo their calls for support. If you are able to make an emergency gift today, please know that it will go directly to protecting their team and community partners.