Authors:
Matthew A. Aubourg, Lucien Bisimwa, Jean Claude Bisimwa, Presence Sanvura, Camille Williams, Raissa Boroto, Claude Lunyelunye, Jessy Timsifu, Brigitte Munyerenkana, Kelly Endres, Peter J. Winch, Justin Bengehya, Ghislain Maheshe, Cirhuza Cikomola, Alain Mwishingo, Christine Marie George
Published:
2022

In this evaluation of COVID-19 preventative response programs in South Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), we aimed to explore community understandings of COVID-19, assess operational successes and challenges of COVID response activities, and identify barriers to practicing COVID-19 preventative behaviors. We interviewed a total of thirty-one community members (n = 16) and programmatic stakeholders (n = 15) (healthcare providers, government officials, and developmental and NGO staff engaged in COVID-19 response) between April and September 2021. Findings suggest that community-informed approaches are needed for effective COVID-19 preventative response programs in South Kivu, DRC. Our study identified successes and challenges in COVID-19 response activities. Future research should assess the effectiveness of integrating preventive programs with COVID-19 vaccination efforts.