A huge concerted effort is needed to contain the spread of the Ebola virus.The number of people infected with the Ebola virus in West Africa has reached 10,000, with nearly 5,000 deaths. This is an unprecedented challenge, and the prognosis for the spread of this virus is unpredictable. However, the overwhelming nature of the crisis must not leave us paralysed with fear and hopelessness; we need to take extraordinary measures to tackle it head on, and save lives.

Our first line of defence is educating people about the virus and how to avoid catching it. We are working with our trusted Church and non-Church partners, who are providing training to communities, as well as life-saving hygiene kits and hand washing stations. We are also supporting communities affected by the quarantine, and unable to farm their land, earn a living and feed their families.