A very serious health crisis is unfolding in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) — the country is now facing its worst cholera outbreak in 25 years, and health experts are warning that thousands of people are sick or have died from the disease this year. Xinhua
According to the United Nations children’s agency UNICEF, since the start of 2025 there have been more than 64,000 confirmed cases of cholera in the DRC, with nearly 1,900 deaths reported. Children make up a significant portion of those affected — with almost 15,000 infections and around 340 deaths among kids so far. Xinhua
Cholera is a serious stomach and intestinal illness caused by bacteria that spread through contaminated water or food. If people drink water that isn’t clean or wash their hands in unsafe water, the disease can spread easily and make many people very sick, especially children. UNICEF
Much of the problem comes from limited access to clean water and safe toilets in many parts of the country. UNICEF says that in the DRC only about 43 % of people use at least basic clean water, and just 15 % have access to basic sanitation — the lowest in Africa. These conditions make it much easier for cholera to spread. UNICEF
Health teams and volunteers are trying to help by setting up treatment centres, teaching families how to prevent cholera, and giving out safe water and medicines — but experts say more resources are urgently needed. UNICEF and partner organisations are appealing for funding to help fight the outbreak through 2026, warning that without extra help, many more people could get sick. UNICEF
This outbreak also shows how health and sanitation — things like clean water, toilets, soap and safe food — are incredibly important for keeping communities healthy. When these basic needs are missing, diseases like cholera can spread quickly. Xinhua
In short: The Democratic Republic of the Congo is battling its worst cholera outbreak in 25 years, with tens of thousands of infections and many deaths — including children — caused by unsafe water and poor sanitation. Xinhua
Learning takeaway: Diseases like cholera can be prevented with clean water and good hygiene — simple steps like boiling water, washing hands with soap, and keeping toilets clean make a big difference in staying healthy.
