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Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo – February 8, 2025 – The World Health Organization (WHO) has assured that a laboratory in Goma, holding Ebola and other dangerous pathogens, remains secure despite ongoing conflict in the region.
The M23 armed group, backed by Rwanda, recently seized control of North Kivu’s provincial capital, Goma, and has advanced into South Kivu province. The conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and forced large numbers of people to flee the mineral-rich area. The escalating violence had raised concerns about the potential for hazardous pathogens, including Ebola, Marburg, and mpox, to escape from the laboratory.
However, WHO’s representative for the Democratic Republic of Congo, Boureima Hama Sambo, confirmed on Friday that the lab remains secure. Speaking from Kinshasa, he stated, “I can say the lab is safe. The bio bank of this lab is very well kept.”
WHO has taken precautionary measures, ensuring the facility has a stable power supply by providing fuel for its generator. The organization has also worked alongside the International Committee of the Red Cross to deliver essential food and water to staff guarding the laboratory, preventing any attempts to breach the facility. Additionally, the lab has been remotely locked as an added security measure.
“The lab is functioning normally, and there is no threat coming from it at the moment,” Sambo reassured. “There’s no concern for now that any pathogen can be leaked out.”
Disclaimer:
This article is based on information provided by the WHO and other sources as of February 8, 2025. Given the rapidly evolving security situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo, updates may emerge that could change the status of the lab or the broader conflict. Readers are encouraged to follow official health and security advisories for the latest developments.
© 2025 AFP
