JMS, MAF and DIFÄM Deliver Critical Ebola Preparedness Supplies to Frontline Health Facilities in Eastern DRC
Kampala, Uganda – June 2026
As eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) grapples with a growing Ebola outbreak, Joint Medical Store (JMS), in partnership with Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) and the German Institute for Medical Mission (DIFÄM), has successfully delivered four tonnes of critical Ebola preparedness supplies to frontline health facilities serving vulnerable communities.
Since May 2026, the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak has continued to spread across eastern DRC, placing immense pressure on already fragile health systems. The World Health Organisation (WHO) reported a cumulative of 896 confirmed cases, including 232 deaths, from the Democratic Republic of the Congo as of 17 June,2026.
The outbreak has been compounded by ongoing insecurity, population displacement, and limited access to essential healthcare services, creating an urgent need for rapid intervention and strengthened preparedness measures.
Responding to this need, JMS coordinated the procurement and delivery of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including gloves, gowns, face shields and boots, alongside disinfectants, isolation materials, and training resources valued at approximately €20,000. JMS technical teams also provided on-site training to healthcare workers at supported facilities to strengthen infection prevention and control measures.
Among the health facilities supported is Rwankole Clinic in Bunia, a health facility previously expanded through DIFÄM support and now playing a critical role in identifying, isolating and managing suspected Ebola cases.
Delivering the supplies required innovative logistics solutions. Poor road infrastructure and difficult terrain made air transport the most reliable option. Through MAF ’s aviation network, the supplies were transported swiftly from JMS Head Quarters to hard-to-reach health facilities on the frontlines of the outbreak response.
Recognizing that Ebola response efforts require sustained commitment, DIFÄM Regional Coordinator and Pharmacist Christine Häfele-Abal emphasized the need for long-term preparedness.
“We have to prepare ourselves for a marathon, even though we were forced to start running fast,” she said.
For JMS, the response reflects its enduring commitment to strengthening health systems and ensuring life-saving medical supplies reach communities when they are needed most.
“At JMS, saving lives is not just our mission, it is our calling,” said Dr. Bildard Baguma, Executive Director of JMS. “Whether responding to disease outbreaks, humanitarian emergencies, or routine healthcare needs, we remain committed to ensuring that quality medical supplies reach those who need them most. Our partnership with MAF and DIFÄM demonstrates the power of collaboration in protecting communities and strengthening health systems across the region.”
As the outbreak continues to evolve, JMS and its partners remain committed to supporting frontline health workers with the supplies, training, and logistical support required to prevent transmission, protect communities, and save lives.
Through strong partnerships and efficient last-mile delivery systems, JMS continues to play a vital role in advancing health security and emergency preparedness across East and Central Africa.