The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) received its first shipment of mpox vaccines, marking a significant step in combating the ongoing outbreak. The delay in vaccine delivery highlights the persistent issue of vaccine access disparities in low- and middle-income countries, mirroring the challenges encountered during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A mass escape attempt at Makala Central Prison in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, resulted in the deaths of at least 129 people. The incident involved gunfire, suffocation, and a fire that damaged the prison’s administrative building, food depots, and hospital. Authorities are investigating the incident.
The United States has welcomed a two-week humanitarian truce in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), aiming to ease suffering and facilitate de-escalation in the conflict-ridden region. The truce, starting at midnight local time on Friday, covers areas heavily impacted by fighting between government troops and Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. The conflict has displaced millions of people and hindered humanitarian aid efforts.
A deadly new strain of mpox, particularly lethal to children and pregnant women, is rapidly spreading in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This variant, known as clade 1b, has a higher mortality rate than previous strains and is transmitted through both sexual and non-sexual contact. The outbreak has already claimed hundreds of lives, with children under 15 accounting for nearly half of the deaths. While experts are unsure of the likelihood of a global outbreak, they emphasize the need for urgent research, improved access to vaccines and treatments, and increased awareness to prevent further spread.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) witnessed a staggering 105% increase in military spending in 2023, marking the highest percentage jump globally. This surge in expenditure is attributed to heightened tensions with Rwanda, intensified clashes with non-state armed groups, and efforts to strengthen the DRC’s armed forces. The country’s military spending reached $794 million, a significant increase from the previous year.
A virulent strain of the monkeypox virus, clade I, has emerged in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), exhibiting the ability to spread through sexual contact. This strain is more lethal than those involved in previous outbreaks, including the global spread in 2022. The outbreak poses a significant risk of wider transmission, particularly among sex workers, and has raised concerns among scientists about a possible resurgence similar to the mpox outbreak in 2022. International support is dringendly needed to provide vaccinations and enhance diagnostic capabilities within the DRC.
Democratic Republic of Congo President Felix Tshisekedi has called for government control over the ownership of certain aggressive dog breeds, including pit bulls and boerboels. The decision follows a surge in dog attacks in the country, with numerous cases of people being bitten or mauled. The government has tasked relevant ministries with regulating the breeding and ownership of these dogs. This move is part of a larger trend across Africa, with several countries enacting measures to control aggressive breeds and prevent dog attacks.
