Pope Leo XIV used his Aug. 23 Angelus address at the Vatican to appeal for international involvement and safety reforms following a severe Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and a deadly mining landslide in the Central African Republic, according to an ACI Prensa report.
Ebola Outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo
The latest Ebola epidemic in the Democratic Republic of Congo has claimed close to 2,500 lives since public health officials first declared it in May 2026, according to an Aug. 21 BBC report cited by ACI Prensa. The country is currently distributing a vaccine against the virus, and public health officials have declared it the deadliest outbreak in the country’s history.
During the Angelus address, Pope Leo XIV called on the international community to partner directly with local populations on prevention strategies. “In my prayers, I often remember the Democratic Republic of the Congo, especially in light of the spread of the Ebola epidemic, which is sadly claiming many lives. I encourage on the part of the international community a response that also involves local communities in efforts of prevention, so that many human lives may be saved,” the pope stated, as reported by ACI Prensa.
Mining Disaster in the Central African Republic
In the Central African Republic, rescue operations continue following an Aug. 18 landslide at a gold mine near Zamboyé in the western part of the country, according to an Aug. 19 BBC report. The disaster buried and killed more than 100 workers at the site.
Addressing the tragedy from the Vatican, Pope Leo offered prayers for the victims and urged stronger regulatory enforcement at extraction sites. “I am also close to the people of the Central African Republic, who are mourning the victims of the collapse at a mine in Zamboyé. May the Lord receive those who have lost their lives and sustain efforts to ensure safety and respect for the law at mining sites,” the pope said, according to ACI Prensa.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When was the current Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo declared?
According to BBC reports cited by ACI Prensa, public health officials declared the current outbreak in May 2026.
How many people died in the Zamboyé mining landslide?
More than 100 workers lost their lives when the gold mine collapsed on Aug. 18, according to BBC reporting.
What actions did Pope Leo XIV recommended for the DRC Ebola response?
The pope urged the international community to implement prevention strategies that directly involve local communities.
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