Ebola Outbreak Could Threaten Over Million Livelihoods, Put 300,000 Jobs at Risk, Cost African Economies Up to $3.6 Billion If Crisis Spreads

Abu dhabi: The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) could push nearly one million more people into poverty, threatening jobs, livelihoods, and economic stability across the region, the UN Development Programme (UNDP) warned on Tuesday. According to Emirates News Agency, the agency estimates the outbreak could put 300,000 jobs at risk and cost African economies up to $3.6 billion if the crisis spreads and broader regional shocks intensify. Damien Mama, UNDP Resident Representative, stated, "We are seeing the impact in real time: jobs are disappearing, markets are slowing down, and families are being pushed to the edge." The outbreak poses significant challenges, with over 1,400 confirmed cases of the Ebola Bundibugyo virus and 350 deaths reported in DRC and Uganda. More than 90% of infections are concentrated in Ituri province, a key cross-border trading hub with Uganda. The UN Spokesperson highlighted that women are disproportionately affected by the economic and health impacts, as the crisis threatens to eliminate tens of thousands of jobs and disrupt education and healthcare services. Even if the outbreak is contained, DRC alone could face a loss of more than $1 billion and 55,000 jobs, as per UNDP's analysis. With six in 10 people already living below the poverty line, UNDP is collaborating with the government and local communities to enhance both the health response and the economic recovery efforts.