By Feyzil Tshabalala in Lubumbashi
As the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) confronts another deadly Ebola outbreak, Muslim communities across the country are responding with a combination of faith, responsibility and adherence to public health guidance.
For many Congolese Muslims, trust in Allah is not seen as an alternative to science, but as a source of strength alongside practical measures aimed at protecting lives and limiting the spread of disease.
Health officials have warned that the latest outbreak, centred in eastern parts of the country, is becoming increasingly difficult to contain. Declared on 15 May, the outbreak has been linked to the rare Bundibugyo strain of Ebola. According to government figures, 782 cases have been confirmed, resulting in 181 deaths.
Concern has also spread beyond the DRC’s borders. Uganda has reported cases linked to the outbreak, raising fears of wider regional transmission.
The DRC, one of Africa’s largest and most resource-rich nations, is home to a diverse religious population. While Christianity remains the dominant faith, Islam has maintained a longstanding presence in the country and continues to play an important role in many communities, particularly in the eastern provinces.
Muslims are estimated to comprise between 5 and 12% of the country’s population of approximately 116 million people, placing their numbers somewhere between six and fourteen million. The overwhelming majority are Sunni Muslims, with significant communities concentrated in provinces such as Maniema and in cities including Kisangani, Kindu and Kasongo.
Over the decades, Muslim communities have established an extensive network of mosques, Islamic centres, schools and charitable organisations. At the national level, the Islamic Community of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (COMICO) serves as the principal representative body, coordinating religious affairs and advocating for Muslim interests across the country.
Islamic education also remains central to community life. Madrasas and Islamic schools provide instruction in Qur’an, Arabic and Islamic studies alongside secular subjects, helping preserve religious knowledge and identity for future generations.
The DRC’s constitution guarantees freedom of religion, allowing Muslims to worship openly, build mosques, organise religious activities and celebrate Islamic holidays. As a result, Muslims continue to play an active role in the country’s social, economic and civic spheres.
Yet alongside political and economic challenges, the country has repeatedly faced another deadly threat: Ebola.
A Muslim response to Ebola
The virus, believed to originate in wildlife reservoirs including certain species of fruit bats, has repeatedly emerged in eastern regions of the country where sizeable Muslim populations reside. Successive outbreaks have placed enormous pressure on communities, healthcare workers and religious leaders while raising concerns about further transmission within the DRC and neighbouring states.
Despite the fear and uncertainty that often accompany Ebola outbreaks, many communities have responded with caution and cooperation. Health authorities, humanitarian organisations and local leaders have worked together to promote awareness and encourage adherence to measures designed to limit the spread of the disease.
Muslim leaders have been among those playing a constructive role in these efforts. Representatives of COMICO and other Islamic organisations have consistently emphasised the importance of hygiene, personal responsibility and community care, principles deeply rooted in Islamic teachings.
Religious leaders have encouraged Muslims to follow medical guidance, seek treatment when necessary and cooperate with health officials, while continuing to fulfil their religious obligations in a safe and responsible manner.
The guidance offered by many Muslim scholars closely mirrors public health recommendations. Communities are encouraged to maintain high standards of cleanliness, wash their hands regularly, avoid unnecessary exposure to infected individuals and seek medical attention if symptoms develop.
At the same time, Muslims are reminded of their spiritual responsibilities: supporting those affected by illness, making du’a for the sick and placing their trust in Allah while taking every reasonable precaution to protect themselves and others.
The experience of Muslims in the Democratic Republic of Congo highlights the important role faith communities can play during times of crisis. By combining practical health measures with Islamic principles of cleanliness, compassion and communal responsibility, Muslim communities have contributed to efforts aimed at protecting public health while preserving their religious values.
As the country continues to confront the challenge of Ebola, the response of Congolese Muslims offers a powerful reminder that faith and science are not opposing forces. When guided by wisdom and responsibility, both can work together in safeguarding lives, strengthening communities and navigating moments of profound uncertainty.
