In the city of Bunia, Democratic Republic of Congo, despite the Ebola outbreak, some families decided to hold weddings for their relatives. However, local authorities and the church have introduced certain measures that must be followed, although not everyone was pleased with them. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Associated Press.
Bride Solange Hahati said they invited 300 people to the wedding, but when they arrived at the church, church authorities allowed only 50 to enter. The Democratic Republic of Congo faced a new Ebola outbreak in May last year.
The wedding ceremony took place on June 6, 2026, in the Ituri province, in the city of Bunia. The newlyweds walked down the church aisle, guests showered them with confetti. A ring was placed on the groom's finger. A limited number of people were inside the church, the rest of the guests remained outside.
The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo resumed in May 2025. According to the World Health Organization, strict sanitary measures are being taken to prevent the spread of the infection. Restrictions have been imposed on mass events, including weddings.
Solange Hahati said: "We invited 300 people, but when we came to the church, we were told that only 50 could enter. It was very difficult, but we understand that it is for our safety."
One of the guests present at the wedding shared: "We wore masks and kept our distance. But we are glad that we were together."
Church representatives stated that such measures are necessary to reduce the risk of infection spread. "We must follow the instructions of health authorities. We allow weddings to be held, but with strict restrictions," said a local church minister.
The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has been recorded several times. The latest outbreak began in May 2025 and lasted several months. The World Health Organization is working together with local authorities to bring the infection under control.
Most wedding participants supported the measures, but some were dissatisfied with the restrictions. "This is an important day for our family. We followed all the rules, but no one can stop our joy," said the groom.
After the ceremony, the newlyweds returned home. They said that despite the outbreak, they will continue to live happily. "Love will overcome any difficulties," said the bride.
The Ministry of Health of the Democratic Republic of Congo urged the population to observe precautionary measures to prevent the spread of infection. The ministry is conducting a vaccination campaign against Ebola.
The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo was first identified in 1976. Since then, the infection has recurred several times. In recent years, international organizations and local authorities have worked together to control the spread of the infection.
Most wedding participants said that despite the outbreak, life goes on. "We cannot live in fear. We must continue to live while taking precautions," said one of the guests.
After the wedding, the newlyweds went on a honeymoon. Where they went is unknown, but they are confident that they will be happy despite the outbreak.