Responding to the 2026 Ebola Bundibugyo Outbreak

The 2026 Bundibugyo virus disease outbreak highlights the critical role of coordinated action across international, regional, national, and subnational levels. While national, regional and global mechanisms mobilize expertise, resources, and political commitment, the effectiveness of the response ultimately depends on how these efforts translate into operational action on the ground.

This session will bring together representatives from international and regional organizations, national authorities and humanitarian organizations to take stock on the outbreak response. The discussion will explore how international and regional coordination mechanisms can align with provincial and district-level responders, ensuring that strategic decisions, financing, information, and technical guidance reach the frontline in a timely and effective manner. Panelists will examine the role of national leadership, regional cooperation, and partner alignment in strengthening local response capacities and addressing operational challenges.

As infectious disease threats continue to emerge and spread across borders, preparedness depends not only on strong global and regional frameworks, but also on their ability to drive action where outbreaks occur. Drawing on the Ebola Bundibugyo response, this session will identify practical recommendations for coordination across all levels of the health emergency architecture and advancing more resilient outbreak preparedness and response systems.