RTI International is supporting the Ebola response in the Kasaï Province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), working with the Ministry of Health, Institute Nationale Sante Public (INSP), and Centre des opérations d’urgences de santé publique (COUSP). The region has faced logistical challenges due to its remoteness, difficult terrain, and limited infrastructure. Seasonal rains often make roads impassable, electricity is scarce, and mobile coverage is unreliable.
The current outbreak began in September 2025 in Bulape and Mweka health zones. As of September 28, there were 53 confirmed and 11 probable cases, with 45 fatalities among confirmed cases and over 5,000 people vaccinated. No new cases have been reported since September 26.
To improve data collection and coordination, RTI International and partners have centered their efforts on DHIS2, a digital health information system already used nationally in DRC. The system allows for real-time tracking of specimens from collection to laboratory results, integrates vaccination data, and provides incident managers with both high-level overviews and detailed information down to individual contacts who require follow-up.
The deployment includes configuring an EVD Tracker within DHIS2 for suspected cases, contact tracing, laboratory workflows, outcomes tracking, and vaccinations. Offline-capable packages enable field teams far from reliable power or connectivity to participate in surveillance activities. Starlink satellite terminals provide essential internet access at health offices and labs where mobile networks are unavailable. Solar panels with batteries help ensure that operations can continue during power outages or after dark.
A key part of the initiative involves building local capacity by training COUSP staff not only in technology use but also through ongoing mentorship and technical support. This approach aims to sustain improvements beyond the immediate outbreak response.
Efforts are aligned with U.S. global health priorities by emphasizing early detection at the source through locally managed systems like DHIS2. By maintaining accurate records of infections and samples in real time, authorities reduce risks related to biosecurity as well as potential misuse of infectious materials.
“Faster confirmations: Specimen to result times drop because the sample journey is tracked and timely and accurate laboratory results post directly into DHIS2.”
“Complete follow-up: COUSP can see who has not yet been visited and deploy surge teams to close gaps.”
“Quality assured: Routine checks for punctuality, completeness, and accuracy keep the data trustworthy, while harmonization meetings prevent surveillance–lab mismatches.”
Sustained operations rely on resilient infrastructure such as Starlink connectivity paired with solar energy solutions to maintain data flow despite environmental challenges.
The strategy aims first to stabilize Bulape and Mweka before expanding these digital health solutions into neighboring areas at risk within Kasaï Province and Sankuru. By using scalable tools such as tablets running offline-capable DHIS2 software—and supplementing last-mile connectivity with satellite internet—the project seeks not only to contain this outbreak but also strengthen preparedness for future public health emergencies.
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