Congo handwashing stations see revival as Ebola fears grow

The resurgence of Ebola in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo is reviving demand for locally made handwashing stations in the city of Bukavu, where artisans say orders from NGOs, businesses and residents have surged since the latest outbreak was declared.

In welding workshops across the city, workers welded metal frames, installed taps on plastic containers and painted washbasin supports destined for markets, schools, homes and public spaces. The renewed demand comes as the World Health Organization has reported more than 900 suspected Ebola cases and over 170 deaths linked to the outbreak in Congo and Uganda. The epidemic, involving the rare Bundibugyo strain for which there is currently no approved vaccine, has already spread from Ituri province into North and South Kivu provinces, including the city of Bukavu.

“We are manufacturing handwashing stations to help fight diseases like Ebola,” welder Jackson Mukamba said, adding that workshops were receiving orders from NGOs and traders reselling the equipment. Merchant Francine Ntakwindja said the devices, which include a metal stand, basin and tap system, had become increasingly common again after first gaining popularity during earlier Ebola outbreaks and the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Everyone should have one to wash their hands,” she said, adding that a complete unit sold for around $13.

Doctors in Bukavu welcomed the renewed focus on hygiene but warned that handwashing alone would not stop the spread of Ebola in a densely populated city where overcrowding remains common in public transport and markets. “We also need to raise awareness and educate the population,” doctor Royi Rwambusa said, citing the importance of distancing measures and rapid reporting of suspected cases. Across Bukavu markets, residents were seen washing their hands as health authorities continued urging people to adopt preventive measures.

-Victoire Mukenge, Media Coulibaly/Reuters