Information Saves Lives
Conversations for building trust and acting against Ebola in Equateur, 
Democratic Republic of Congo
USAID Award Number: 720BHA21CA00005
Project Endline Report
Submitted on September 14, 2021
Page | ii
Contents
Map of the Health Zones Survey Conducted in the Province of Equateur..................................iii
A. Quantitative survey ................................................................................................................... 1
B. Qualitative study........................................................................................................................ 2
2.1 Project Background .................................................................................................................... 3
2.2 Objective ...................................................................................................................................... 3
2.3 Survey Methodology.................................................................................................................... 3
A. Preparatory Work..................................................................................................................... 3
i) Literature review:............................................................................................................................. 3
ii) Sample: ........................................................................................................................................... 4
ii) Training: ......................................................................................................................................... 4
B. Data Collection .......................................................................................................................... 4
i) Quantitative data collection: ............................................................................................................ 4
ii) Household Selection: ...................................................................................................................... 5
iii) Respondent selection: .................................................................................................................... 5
iv) Qualitative data collection: ............................................................................................................ 5
v) Individual Interviews: ..................................................................................................................... 5
vi) Focus group discussions: ............................................................................................................... 5
3.1 Quantitative Survey .................................................................................................................... 6
3.1.1 Demographic data and general characteristics...................................................................... 6
3.1.2 Health Information Consumption........................................................................................... 9
3.1.3 Knowledge and attitudes towards Ebola and Ebola survivors........................................... 10
3.1.4. Attitudes and Practice.......................................................................................................... 13
3.1.5. Ebola Survivors ............................................................................................................... 19
3.1.6 Intervention of Internews radio program ........................................................................... 22
3.1.7 Coronavirus ........................................................................................................................... 24
3.2 Qualitative Findings................................................................................................................ 25
4. Conclusion........................................................................................................................................ 27
5. Annexes ............................................................................................................................................ 28
Page | iii
Map of the Health Zones Survey Conducted in the Province of Equateur
Page | 1
1. KEY FINDINGS OF THE STUDY:
A. Quantitative survey
o An average of 82% of respondents can reportedly recall targeted health education messages on 
Ebola. The figure is the same for male and female respondents but slightly higher for 
respondents within the age bracket of 26-35 (84%) and somewhat low for those 19-25 and over 
45 years (80% each).
o An average of 69% of respondents can reportedly identify common rumors and misperceptions
about Ebola, including 68% of men and 69% of women respondents. The average response rate 
varied between age groups: 72% of 19-25-year-olds, 70% of 26-35-year-olds and those over 45, 
66% of 36-45-year-olds, and 65% for 15-18-year-olds.
o Forty percent (40%) of respondents recall hearing or listening to the Internews radio program 
“Tolobi nini.” The program reportedly reached 45% of men compared to 35% of women
respondents. The program was mostly listened to by those between the age range of 36-45 (48%) 
as compared to 35% for those aged 15-18 and respondents over 45 years. Of those who listened 
to the radio program, 98% say it improved their knowledge of Ebola and other endemic diseases. 
89% of respondents reported to have changed certain behavior and practices including 
handwashing, refraining from touching the sick or dead as a result of listening to the radio 
program.
o Overall, more than 70% of the population sampled reported to applying protective measures 
against Ebola, ranging from frequent handwashing with soap and water to safe burial practices. 
87.8% of the sampled population affirm that they will willingly go to a health facility if they 
suspect the signs of Ebola.
o Seventy-five percent (75%) of respondents believe that Ebola can be contracted from wild 
animals (chimpanzees, monkeys, bats, etc) – a view shared by majority of all age groups, 
including 80% of men and 71% of women.
o Several modes of transmission of the virus were identified by respondents including handling
of bushmeat (72%), eating fruit left by animals (60%), and the blood of an infected person 
(60%).
o For 66% of respondents, Ebola survivors no longer threaten their communities, while 30% of 
respondents think they do. 70% say they can buy fresh vegetables sold by survivors and 65% 
do not find it dangerous to eat from the same plate as Ebola survivors. 43% of respondents say 
they will avoid former Ebola treatment health facilities. 
o The survey results show that 57% of the population surveyed believe in the existence of Covid￾19 in the DRC but only 33% are willing to take the Covid-19 vaccine or recommend it to 
someone. Lack of confidence in the vaccine (46%) is the main reason given by those who refute 
the idea, followed by the likelihood of being infected (26%). 
Page | 2
B. Qualitative study
I. The Project
o The results show partner appreciation of the "Information Saves Lives: Conversations to build 
trust and act against Ebola in Equateur, DRC” project citing live-saving information on 
preventive measures and adoption of new behaviors by the population.
o Radio stations are cited as the main channel for getting information about the project through 
the "Tolobi Nini" radio program broadcast by 21 radio stations notably Radio Mwana; Radio 
Lobiko; Radio Liberté; Radio Mbandkdev; Radio Zoe; Radio Libéral; Radio Sara. But also 
through the platforms of the Union of Congolese Women in the Media (UCOFEM) and the 
Provincial Youth Council of Equateur (CPJE).
II. Capacity Building
Participants were satisfied with the training provided by Internews for several reasons:
o The beneficiaries of UCOFEM activities acknowledge improvement in their knowledge 
about the origin of malaria, the preventive measures against diseases such as Covid-19, 
Ebola, Monkeypox, etc.
o The beneficiaries of CPJE training reported that the it helped them adopt new preventive 
measures against Ebola and Covid-19 including self-care and water treatment methods.
o Radio partners reported that the project responded to their capacity needs particularly in 
producing high quality health radio programs. 
However, the following elements of concern were noted:
o Duration of the trainings was deemed short
o Lack of indepth coverage of the different diseases 
o Smaller number of participants that benefited from the training
o Lack of visibility materials such as T-shirts and caps during implementation of project activities.
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2. INTRODUCTION 
2.1 Project Background 
Internews was among the early responders to the Ebola outbreak in Equateur, Western DRC through 
radio programming and community engagement with the re-direction of resources from USAID/OFDA￾funded Ebola project in Eastern DRC. Following the declaration of the end of the outbreak on November 
18, 2020, Internews refocused implementation of its project:“Information Saves Lives: Conversations 
to Build Trust and Acting Against Ebola in Equateur, Democratic Republic of Congo” to incorporate 
other health issues including Covid-19 and endemic diseases in Equateur while continuining 
programming on Ebola prevention and preparedness. The project also included the reinforcement of
local partner capacity to respond to health emergencies and address emerging health issues through a
combination of radio programming and community engagement activities that provide accurate, timely,
and reliable information to audiences and the affected population.
2.2 Objective
The core objectives of this endline survey was to generate data on key project indicators notably:
a) Number and percentage of community members who can recall target health education 
messages disaggregated by gender and age (500 people participate and 70% recall health 
messages on protective measures);
b) Percentage of the target population who correctly identify common rumors and misperceptions 
about Ebola and other endemic diseases as false (500 people participate and 70% identify 
rumors and misconceptions about Ebola);
c) Number of people reached through public awareness campaigns and participating in exercises 
(2,000 via social media and community engagement activities and 70% of 500 surveyed).
d) In addition, the final evaluation was expected to capture data on Internews' programming, 
including its capacity-building work, radio program, and community engagement activities.
To deliver on this, Internews contracted a research firm, Target to lead the endline survey with technical 
support and guidance from the project’s M&E Officer and Project Director.
2.3 Survey Methodology
Before the commencement of field data collection, several meetings were held between Target and 
Internews to better elaborate the scope of work and research methodology. The study was divided into 
three main sections as detailed below:
A. Preparatory Work
i) Literature review: This phase consisted of collecting existing information on Ebola in Equateur.
Various sources were used, including Internews DRC project documents and publications; reports and 
publications from World Health Organization (WHO), United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF),
Médecins sans Frontières (MSF), United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Office for the 
Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). 
Deliverables: 
o Selection of field research sites and approach
o Selection of target communities and information providers
o Selection criteria for Key Informant Interviews and Focus Group Discussion participants
o Design of questionnaire for the survey from the extensive Internews database of previous work
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ii) Sample: A sample of five hundred (500) respondents were identified, drawn from the total 
population in Equateur which is estimated at 1,626,6061 with a 95% confidence level. The methodology 
below was used for the distribution of the sample which considered the demographic weight of each 
health zone to deploy and complete the survey. The research also considered the sample's 
representativeness by the quota method applied to the following variables: gender (50% men, 50% 
women), age, and place of residence. Health zone Estimated population
Proportion in
%
Sample distribution
Female
Male
15-18 years
19 - 25 years
26 - 35 years
36 - 45 years
Older than 45 years
Mbandaka 534600 35% 175 88 87 34 46 39 35 21
Wangata 653400 45% 225 116 109 61 30 59 47 28
Bikoro 173010 20% 100 50 50 17 22 32 18 11
Total 1361010 100% 500 254 246 112 98 130 100 60
 Source: INS and Smart ZS Bikoro survey summary, March 2020, Action Against Hunger
ii) Training: In collaboration with the Internews Project Director and the M&E Officer, additional field 
data collectors were recruited to strengthen the local team on the ground. The team was drafted based 
on representation criteria, aiming for a diverse team that facilitates access to community members 
identified as most relevant to the research, including vulnerable groups such as women, youth, Ebola 
survivors. The team included representation across gender and age categories from across the region, 
emphasizing diverse local language skills.
A two-day workshop with the selected team was conducted with a focus on quantitative and qualitative 
data collection techniques, following humanitarian principles (dignity, consent, privacy). This was also 
followed by review of the context of the study, methodology, and pre-testing of the questionnaire 
(French and local languages) during the training session. 
The training also helped with the translation of the questionnaire into the relevant local languages and 
testing/adaptation based on input from the field research team. Some adjustments were also made to the 
research tools, (questionnaire and Kobo Collect data collection platform based on feedback from the 
field researchers. 
B. Data Collection
i) Quantitative data collection: Using a sample of 500 from the target population of 1,626,606
inhabitants, sample was distributed at the level of health zones (Mbandaka, Wangata and Bikoro health 
zones) representing the ley areas of Internews intervention in Equateur and accounting for the areas
severely affected by the Ebola outbreak. Data collection was done at the household level with results
presented in graphs and tables. 
The initial plan was to conduct field data collection in several health zones affected by the Ebola 
outbreak in Equateur. Given the challenges of movement across Equateur and the timeline for 
completing the research, data collection focused on two cities and the health zones within them:
1 Population of provinces and key cities in the DRC: https://www.populationdata.net/pays/republique￾democratique-du-congo/
Page | 5
• Mbandaka: Mbandaka and Wangata health zones.
• Bikoro: Bikoro health zone.
Households in the selected health zones constituted the sampling unit. A population-representative 
sample was used and considered the demographic weight of each community as the target population 
for people between 18 and 65 years. The following variables were used to develop a model for the 
representativeness of the quota based on gender, age, occupation, and place of residence. On the basis
of this model, data could be extrapolated to represent the whole population. 
ii) Household Selection: The first household visited by the interviewer was the one on the right in 
their work area (that is, where the supervisor would place them) for the first respondent. They proceeded 
to skip five houses for the second interview, and so on. For purposes of this study, household is defined 
as a structure with a residential occupancy. Hence, churches, schools, hospitals, offices, military camps, 
bars, liquor stores were not eligible as living structures to select a respondent. However, a residential 
plot with an attached activity such as a liquor store or church was admissible.
iii) Respondent selection: Once in the household, the interviewer took into account the age and gender 
quota for the respondents following the sequence of male - female (depending on whether the 
interviewer code was odd) and the sequence female - male (depending on whether the interviewer code 
was even). At the end of each interview, the interviewer used GPS coordinates to locate their position
even though the location was not always visible. 
If the interviewer did not find the respondents at home, they had to substitute them by going to the next 
house. If they did not see the correct respondent in the plot, they were expected to leave and target the 
other property on the right, which is immediately after the first one.
iv) Qualitative data collection: Key Informant Interviews (KII) and Focus Group Discussions (FGD)
were conducted. The team conducted structured interviews with radio partners, listening club members 
identified from the list provided by Internews, and randomly selected individuals in identified 
communities.
v) Individual Interviews: The individual interviews were with partners of the selected radio stations 
that benefitted from the capacity-building work of Internews. Interviews were recorded. The 
comprehensive report of the insights from these interviews were included in the study's final report. In 
total three individual interviews were conducted with radio partners.
vi) Focus group discussions: Three focus group discussions were conducted with selected 
beneficiaries of UCOFEM and CPJE activities and a listening club selected from Internews 
programming. The moderator ensured that the number of each focus group did not exceed 10 and 
members were selected following a certain homogeneity – that is they have the same profile (listening 
club, a beneficiary of activities delivered by UCOFEM or CPJE).
The moderator encouraged the participants to speak up by posing follow-up questions, ensuring each 
respondent contributed to the discussion. A note taker carefully recorded the responses without 
distortion and interference in the flow of the conversation. Each focus group lasted for about 90 minutes.
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3. PRESENTTAION AND ANALYSIS OF RESULTS
3.1 Quantitative Survey
3.1.1 Demographic data and general characteristics
The survey was administered to 500 individuals in three health zones in Equateur (Mbandaka: 35%, 
Bikoro: 20% and Wangata: 45%). Female respondents made up 51% (255) of the overall sample and 
male respondents made up 49% (245).
In terms of age distribution, respondents were classified into five age brackets (15-18 years, 19-25 years, 
26-35 years, 36-45 years, over 45 years).
Figure 3: Distribution by age
As The result shows 52% of respondents are single compared to 42% of those that are married with 
more women reportedly married 45% as compared to men 38%.
51% 49%
Gender distribution
Male Female
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
% 15-18 yrs % 19 - 25 yrs % 26 - 35 yrs % 36 - 45 yrs % Above 45
years
Age distribution
Male Female
45%
35%
20%
Distribution by location
Wangata
health zone
Mbandaka
health zone
Bikoro health
zone
Figure 1: Gender distribution Figure 2: Distribution by location
Page | 7
Also, 90% of the respondents are Christians compared to only 4% of Muslim believers as per the graph 
below. This data is similar across gender, age and location where Christians are in a dominant majority. 
Figure 5: Religious practice
Majority of respondents(60%) surveyed reported to be engaged in some form of employment, compared 
to 33% who are reportedly unemployed. Only 8% of respondents reported being in formal education, 
including 11% men and 5% women.
90% 92%
89%
4%
5%
4%
5% 3%
7%
80%
85%
90%
95%
100%
Overall (n=500) Man (n=246) Woman (n=254)
Religious practice
Christian Muslim Other
52% 55%
46%
42% 38%
45%
3% 4% 3% 2% 3% 5%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
Overall (n=500) Man (n=246) Woman (n=254)
MARITAL STATUS
Single Married Separeted Widowed
Figure 4: Marital status
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Figure 6: Occupation
The main income-generating activity practised in the three study areas is trade (17%), in which 25% of 
women (n=254) accounted for the majority as compared to 9% of men (n=246). Overall (n=500) Male (n=246) Female (n=25
4)
15-18 years
(n=112)
19 - 25 years
(n=98)
26 - 35 years
(n=130)
36 - 45 years
(n=100)
Older than 45 
years
(n=6
0)
Unemployed 33% 28% 37% 54% 42% 24% 16% 23%
Plumbing 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0%
Carpenter 0% 1% 0% 0% 0% 1% 1% 0%
Electrician 1% 2% 0% 2% 1% 0% 2% 0%
Constructor 2% 4% 0% 2% 3% 2% 2% 2%
Mechanic 1% 2% 0% 0% 2% 1% 2% 0%
Trader / small businessman 17% 9% 25% 4% 18% 23% 20% 20%
Agriculture 5% 7% 4% 1% 3% 5% 9% 11%
Teacher / instructor 6% 6% 6% 0% 2% 10% 9% 10%
Government Agent (public servant) 4% 6% 3% 0% 1% 4% 8% 11%
Student 8% 11% 5% 9% 16% 8% 2% 0%
Transporter (taxi driver, cyclist, bus 
/ mini-bus, etc.) 2% 4% 0% 0% 2% 2% 2% 3%
Physician / Nurse 4% 4% 3% 0% 1% 4% 9% 7%
NGO Worker 2% 3% 1% 0% 2% 3% 4% 2%
Civil society 1% 0% 1% 0% 0% 0% 3% 0%
Other (to precize) 12% 16% 28% 6% 12% 11% 11%
Table 1: Detailed breakdown of respondents’ occupation
The result below shows that nearly 7 out of 10 people (67%) have a secondary school diploma.
Those with no education make up 2% of the respondents. The result also shows that there are 
more men with university degrees (32%) as compared to women (18%). The age group of 19-
45 years is the most educated. 
58%
61%
60%
37%
28%
32%
5%
11%
8%
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70%
Female (n=254)
Male (n=246)
Overall (n=500)
Occupation
Student Unemployed Active
Page | 9
Figure 7: Educational level
3.1.2 Health Information Consumption
The primary source of health-related information is radio as cited by 82% of respondents. This data is 
similar across gender and the different age groups. Detailed disaggregation can be found in Annex 5.1
attached to this report.
Health information access source
Overall
(n=500)
Male
(n=246)
Female
(n=254)
Radio 82% 85% 80%
Television 26% 30% 22%
Ordinary mobile phone 20% 26% 15%
Smartphone or tablet 4% 6% 3%
Newspaper 5% 7% 3%
Laptop / Computer with Internet 2% 4% 0%
Others 2% 2% 2%
No equipment 11% 7% 15%
Table 2: Health information access
Of those who listen to radio, 59.6% prefer the 7:00-9:00 pm time slot, while 31.7% of 
respondents say they listen very early in the morning (5:30-7:00 am) and 26.5% prefer listening 
in the evening (4:00-6:00 pm).
When do you prefer to listen to the 
radio?
Overall
(n=412)
Male
(n=209)
Female
(n=203)
Very late at night (21h - 12h) 13% 17% 14%
Night (19h - 21h) 60% 72% 73%
Evening (16h - 18h) 27% 33% 32%
During the day (13h - 15h) 7% 11% 6%
Before midday (10h - 12h) 5% 6% 6%
Morning (7h - 10h) 8% 8% 10%
Early in the morning (5h30 - 7h00) 32% 44% 32%
Table 3: Radio listening time preference
3%
2%
2%
9%
2%
6%
69%
64%
67%
18%
32%
25%
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80%
Female (n=254)
Male (n=246)
Overall (n=500)
Educational level
University / College. High school Primary No Education
Page | 10
In addition to the night time slot (7:00–9:00 pm), people aged 26 and over are the most likely 
to listen very early in the morning (5:30–7:00 am) as opposed to younger people (15-18 years 
old) who generally only listen to the radio in the evening (4:00 pm until late at night).
Radio listening by age 15-18 
years
(n=91)
19-25 
years
(n=73)
26-35 
years
(n=115)
36-45 
years
(n=82)
Over 45 
years
(n=51)
Early in the morning (5h30 - 7h00). 27% 27% 39% 54% 48%
Morning (7h - 10h) 10% 8% 10% 6% 12%
Before midday (10h - 12h) 8% 3% 8% 5% 4%
During the day (13h - 15h) 12% 11% 9% 7% 4%
Evening (16h - 18h) 35% 32% 36% 26% 31%
Night (19h - 21h) 66% 74% 73% 78% 71%
Late in the night (21h - 12h) 38% 5% 19% 21% 15%
Table 4 : Radio listening by age
Of the targeted respondents, 62% reported being a member of a social network, with Facebook 
accounting for the highest percentage (41%), followed by WhatsApp (18%).
Only 20% of women reported engagement in social media network groups against 42% for 
men. The age bracket of 19-25-year-olds reported a slightly higher percentage on Facebook 
(45%) than other age groups.
 Table 5: Social media engagement
3.1.3 Knowledge and attitudes towards Ebola and Ebola survivors
When asked where they heard about Ebola, 87% of respondents cited radio showing its dominance in 
health information dissemination. Only 20% heard of Ebola on television.
From which channel did they hear about Ebola? Overall 
(n=500)
Male
(n=246)
Female 
(n=254)
Radio 87% 89% 85%
Television 20% 21% 19%
Ordinary cell phone 14% 15% 13%
Smartphone or tablet 2% 2% 2%
Newspaper 5% 7% 3%
Laptop / computer with Internet 2% 2% 1%
Friends 2% 2% 2%
Report 1% 0% 0% Overall (n=500)
Male
(n=246)
Female
(n=254)
15-18 
years
(n=112)
19 -25 
years
26-35 
years
36-45 
years
Older 
than 45 
years
Facebook 41% 54% 29% 43% 54% 45% 40% 13%
Twitter 3% 4% 1% 1% 3% 4% 3% 2%
WhatsApp 18% 26% 11% 13% 20% 22% 23% 7%
Other (precise) 1% 1% 0% 0% 2% 1% 0% 0%
None 58% 45% 71% 57% 46% 53% 60% 87%
Page | 11
Church 0% 0% 1%
Teacher 0% 0% 1%
Family 1% 0% 0%
Training 0% 0% 1%
Hospital 1% 0% 0%
Population 4% 0% 1%
Quartier 0% 1% 1%
Community relay 2% 1% 2%
Sensitization 2% 0% 2%
Work 0% 1% 0%
Neighbors 1% 0% 2%
Never heard 0% 0% 1%
Do not know 1% 0% 1%
Table 6 : Channel respondent heard about Ebola
The table below shows that almost the entire population (98%) has heard about Ebola, most of them 
within the last three months. Detailed disaggregation of result by age, location can be found in Annex
5.1 attached to this report.
When was the last time you heard about Ebola? Overall
(n=500)
Male
(n=246)
Female
(n=254)
During the last week 7% 5% 8%
During the last 2 weeks 10% 12% 8%
During the last month 14% 17% 11%
In the last 3 months 32% 31% 33%
In the last 6 months 17% 16% 18%
More than 6 months ago 18% 17% 19%
Never 2% 2% 2%
Table 7: Last time respondents heard about Ebola
When asked about the cause of the Eboa outbreak in Equateur, 75% of respondents believe that the virus 
originated from wild animals (chimpanzees, monkeys, bats). There were more respondents (80%) as 
compared to females (71%) who responded the same way. When looking at age, 11% of 19-25-year￾olds attributed the virus to politics. Detailed disaggregation can be found in Annex 5.1 attached to this
report.
What triggered the Ebola epidemic? Overall
(n=500)
Male
(n=246)
Female
(254)
Animals (chimpanzees, monkeys, bats) 75% 80% 71%
God 3% 4% 2%
Witchcraft 3% 2% 4%
Curse 1% 0% 2%
Politics 4% 4% 5%
Invention 2% 1% 2%
Virus 6% 6% 7%
Others 1% 1% 0%
I don't know 5% 2% 7%
Table 8: Possible cause of Ebola
Page | 12
When asked how the Ebola virus can be transmitted, majority cited handling of bushmeat (72%) with 
blood from an infected person and eating fruit left by animals (60%) both following in second place. 
Respondents under 45 years of age cited eating fruit left by animals as a key factor for the transmission 
of the virus. Detailed disaggregation of result by age and location is attached to this report in Annex 1.
Mode of transmission of the Ebola virus Overall 
(n=500)
Male
(n=246)
Female
(n=254)
Airplane 11% 11% 11%
Mosquito 18% 16% 19%
Handling bushmeat 72% 74% 69%
Eating fruit left behind by animals 60% 63% 58%
Saliva of an infected person 48% 46% 50%
Blood of an infected person 60% 62% 58%
Sweat of an infected person 43% 43% 44%
Urine of an infected person 32% 28% 35%
Semen of an infected person 29% 29% 29%
Breast milk of an infected person 28% 27% 28%
Secretion of an infected person 24% 24% 25%
Shake hands with an infected person 40% 40% 40%
Other physical contact with an infected person 55% 37% 73%
Handling the body or corpse of an infected person 41% 41% 40%
Having sex with an infected person 23% 25% 22%
Other 2% 1% 2%
Don't know 2% 2% 2%
Table 9: Mode of Ebola transmission
Four symptoms of the Ebola virus disease were identified by at least 5 out of 10 people that cited diarrhea 
(88%), vomiting (83%), fever (76%), and headache (58%). These results were particularly mentioned 
by those in the 26-35 and 45+ age groups.
Based on what you have 
heard, what are the signs 
and symptoms of the Ebola 
virus?
Overall
(n=500)
Male (n=246)
Female
(n=254)
15 to 18 years
(n=112)
19 to 25 years
(n=98)
26 to 35 years
(n=130)
36 to 45 years
(n=100)
Older than 45 
years (n=60)
Fever 76% 77% 75% 74% 83% 80% 72% 67%
Headache 58% 58% 57% 59% 56% 58% 63% 50%
Aches / muscular pains 22% 23% 20% 17% 20% 22% 27% 22%
Weakness and tiredness 31% 31% 31% 29% 33% 32% 37% 23%
Diarrhea 88% 90% 86% 84% 92% 88% 88% 90%
Vomiting 83% 85% 82% 87% 79% 85% 82% 85%
Chest pain 24% 25% 22% 20% 19% 28% 28% 20%
Lack of appetite 19% 20% 18% 17% 20% 21% 19% 17%
Sore throat 16% 18% 15% 13% 18% 19% 15% 15%
Weakness 29% 33% 26% 29% 31% 30% 28% 27%
Red eyes 47% 46% 47% 41% 42% 57% 43% 52%
Skin rashes 17% 17% 16% 12% 15% 23% 20% 10%
Page | 13
Hiccough 4% 4% 4% 2% 4% 5% 4% 3%
Others 2% 3% 2% 3% 3% 1% 3% 3%
Don't know 1% 1% 2% 1% 0% 2% 2% 2%
Table 10: Signs and symptoms of Ebola
Only 21% of respondents reported that that someone can be infected with Ebola and remain
asymptomatic as compared to 73% who reported otherwise. The result is almost the same for male (22%) 
and female (20%) respondents.
Figure 7: Asymptomatic with Ebola
The result below shows that more than 8 out of 10 people (83%) think that Ebola cannot be cured by
traditional healers with only 13% holding a contrary view. When compared to spiritual healers, 42% of 
respondents believe that they can cure Ebola. 
Given the demographics of the respondents that shows 94% are religious, this could account for their 
view that their religious leaders can cure them of Ebola. However, individuals aged 19-25 are the most 
skeptical when it comes to believing that spiritual healers can cure Ebola.
Figure 8: Traditional healers curing Ebola
3.1.4. Attitudes and Practice
Eleven percent (11%) of respondents reported attending burial during the Ebola outbreak. Of this, 42% 
21% 22% 20%
73% 74% 73%
6% 4% 7%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
Overall (n=500) Man (n=246) Woman (n=254)
Possible to be infected with Ebola and be asymptomatic
Yes No I don't know
13% 13% 14%
83% 84% 81%
4% 3% 5%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
Overall (n=500) Man (n=246) Woman (n=254)
Can traditional healers cure Ebola? 
Yes No I don't know
42% 42% 43%
55% 54% 55%
3% 4% 2%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
Overall (n=500) Man (n=246) Woman (n=254)
Can spiritual healers cure Ebola?
Yes No I don't know
Figure 9: Religious leaders curing Ebola
Page | 14
said they participated in burial practices, including 44% of women and 40% of men. Detailed 
disaggregation by age and location is attached to this report in Annex 5.1.
 Figure 10: Attended funeral during Ebola Figure 11: Participated in burial practice
The result below shows that 88% of respondents are willing to go to a health facility if they experience 
signs of Ebola. This view is predominantly shared by both male and female respondents across all age 
groups, although it is higher among 36-45-year-olds (97%) and 26-35-year-olds (93%). 
Respondents who said they would not go to a health facility or treatment center if they experience signs 
of Ebola expressed concern about the safety of hospital claiming that it is infected with Ebola (43%).
This figure is much higher among male respondents (48%) as compared to female respondents (38%) 
even though more women think they won’t make it alive at the hospital if they suspect having Ebola 
(27%) as compared to men (17%). Also more men prefer home-based medical care (22%), and mostly
among people aged 26 to 35 as compared to only 4% women who prefer to be treated at home.
If no, why would they not go to a treatment center? Overall
(n=49)
Male
(n=23)
Female
(n=26)
I don't think I'm going to make it alive. 22% 17% 27%
I think the hospital is infected with Ebola. 43% 48% 38%
I have no money. 4% 4% 4%
I prefer to go to a traditional healer. 2% 0% 4%
I prefer to go to a pharmacy nearby. 4% 4% 4%
I prefer to be treated at home. 12% 22% 4%
11% 12% 10%
88% 87% 90%
1% 1%
0%
50%
100%
Overall (n=500) Man (n=246) Woman
(n=254)
Did you attend any funerals during 
the Ebola outbreak?
Yes No I don't know
42% 40% 44%
58% 60% 56%
0%
50%
100%
Overall (n=55) Man (n=30) Woman (n=25)
Did you participate in burial 
practices? 
Yes No
88% 88% 88%
10% 9% 10%
2% 3% 2%
80%
85%
90%
95%
100%
Overall (n=500) Man (n=246) Woman (n=254)
If you have signs of Ebola, would you go to a health facility or 
medical treatment center?
Yes NO I don't know
Figure 12: Seeking treatment at a treatmnet center if infected with Ebola
Page | 15
In the hospital, I won't have contact with my family 2% 0% 4%
What we call Ebola is the internal hemorrhoid. If you take 
the roots and leaves of the forest you will be cured 2% 4% 0%
I am afraid that they will keep me in the hospital and I will 
stay there for good. 2% 0% 4%
I prefer to go to my pastor because he is the one who can 
cure me of Ebola. In the hospital they kill people to get 
money
2% 0% 4%
Fear of being infected by the clothes in the treatment center 2% 0% 4%
I don't know. 2% 0% 4%
Table 11: Reasons for not going to a treatment center
In addition, 87% of respondents believe that infected people should be isolated from others with slightly 
more men (89%) in favor of this as compared to women (86%). Detailed disaggregated result by age 
and location is attached to this report in Annex 1.
Figure 13: Isolating people infected with Ebola
Despite some of the misgivings about going to a treatment center, majority of respondents (88%) still
believe there is a higher chance of survival at a health facility for those infected with Ebola than 
anywhere else.
87% 89%
86%
12% 11%
13%
1% 1%
75%
80%
85%
90%
95%
100%
Overall (n=500) Man (n=246) Woman (n=254)
Should people with Ebola isolated?
Yes No I don't know
Page | 16
Figure 14: Chances of surviving Ebola at a health facility
When faced with a probable case of Ebola, 32% of respondents are most likely to take the person to an
Ebola treatment center, 25% would call the response number and 20% would move the person to the 
health center. However, it seemed that women were more likely to take the suspected case to an Ebola 
treatment center (34%) as compared to men (29%). 
What would you do if you suspect a family member 
has Ebola?
Overall 
(n=500)
Male
(n=246)
Female
(n=254)
Take the person to the Ebola treatment center 32% 29% 34%
Call the response number 25% 29% 21%
Move the person to the health center 20% 20% 20%
Avoid physical contact and body fluids 8% 8% 9%
Stay away from them for 21 days 5% 5% 4%
Take care of the person at home 5% 4% 5%
Check the temperature by touching their body 1% 2% 1%
Keep them at home so no one knows they are sick 1% 1% 2%
I don't know 1% 0% 2%
Talk to your friends and family 1% 0% 1%
Nothing at all 1% 1% 0%
Quickly inform the community relays 0% 0% 1%
Table 12: What to do if you suspect a family member with Ebola
The chart below shows 86% of respondents would contact their local authorities in the event of a 
suspected Ebola death in their immediate surroundings and 55% would not touch the corpse while 21% 
who would immediately bury the corpse.
88% 87% 88%
1% 1%
5% 4%
6%
7% 8%
5%
80%
82%
84%
86%
88%
90%
92%
94%
96%
98%
100%
Overall (n=500) Man (n=246) Woman (n=254)
Chances of surviving Ebola at a health facility
Higher chances of survival Worst
No chance to survive I don't know
Page | 17
Figure 15: What would you do a suspected Ebola corpse
Moreover, 70% of respondents would allow burial of a family member suspected to have died of Ebola
without touching or washing the corpse. However, findings show that more than 10% aged 19-25 and 
over 36 tend to wash the suspected Ebola dead body before burial.
Figure 16: Allow burial without touching or washing the corpse
For Ebola protective measures, the survey data reveals that 75% of respondents cited handwashing and 
hygiene advice asthe most common measure they have adopted to protect themselves and family against 
Ebola. This finding is slightly higher for female respondents (76%) as compared to male (74%) with 
80% of older respondents (45 years and older) mostly likely to do so the same.
What measures have you taken to 
protect your family or loved ones 
against Ebola?
Overall 
(n=500)
Male
(n=246)
Female
(n=256)
15-18 years
(n=112)
19- 25 years
(n=98)
26- 35 years
(n=130)
36 - 45 years
(n=100)
45 years and 
older (n=60)
Talk to them about handwashing 
and hygiene 75% 74% 76% 73% 79% 69% 69% 80%
Tell them what to do when 
someone in the community is sick 3% 4% 2% 4% 5% 0% 0% 3% 86% 55% 21% 9% 2% 85% 58% 21% 8% 1% 87% 53% 21% 9% 2%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
Contact the
authorities and
wait for the burial
team
Do not touch the
corpse
Burying the corpse
immediately
Wash the corpse Don't know
If you suspect a family member has died of Ebola, what would you do 
with corpse?
Overall (n=500) Man (n=246) Woman (n=254)
70% 71% 69%
27% 25% 28%
3% 4% 3%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
Overall (n=500) Man (n=246) Woman (n=254)
If a family is suspected to have died of Ebola, would you allow the burial of 
the person without touching or washing the corpse
Yes No Don't know
Page | 18
Tell them not to touch the sick 
person or the corpse 6% 4% 8% 4% 5% 11% 11% 7%
Provide water and soap for hand 
washing 7% 6% 9% 8% 3% 10% 10% 3%
Purchase protective items such as 
medication, gloves.
3% 4% 2% 4% 2% 4% 4% 0%
Inform the local leader if someone 
is suspected of having Ebola 
4% 4% 4% 4% 5% 4% 4% 5%
Others 1% 2% 0% 0% 1% 2% 2% 2%
Don't know 1% 1% 0% 2% 0% 0% 0% 0%
Table 13: Ebola protective measures
When asked if they are willing to take the Ebola vaccine or recommend it to someone as a protective 
measure against Ebola, 46% of respondents were willing to do so as compared to 52% who responded 
“no”. Male respondents (51%) and young people between the age bracket of 26-35 years (57%) are 
most open to taking the vaccine while younger people aged 15 to 18 are most unwilling to take the 
vaccine (61%). Detailed disaggregation of the result by age and location is attached to this report in 
Annex 5.1.
Figure 17: Ebola vaccine
Of those who are unwilling to take the Ebola vaccine or recommend it someone, 48% don’t trust the 
vaccine and 16% believe the vaccine is infected with the virus. Other reasons provided by respondents 
include statements like the vaccine “is not safe” and “it’s a slow killer" with each returning a 11% 
response rate. 
If no, why ? Overall
(n=258)
Male
(n=114)
Female
(n=144)
I don't trust the vaccine 48% 42% 53%
It's not safe 11% 13% 10%
It is infected with a virus 16% 18% 14%
It can make someone sterile 6% 8% 5%
It kills people slowly 11% 10% 12%
Others 7% 9% 6%
Don’t know 1% 1% 1%
Table 14: Reason for not taking Ebola vaccine
46% 51% 41%
52% 46% 57%
2% 3% 2%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
Overall (n=500) Man (n=246) Woman (n=254)
Will you be willing to take the Ebola vaccine or recommend it to someone as 
a protective measure against Ebola?
Yes No Don't know
Page | 19
3.1.5. Ebola Survivors
About two thirds of respondents (66%) do not view Ebola survivors as posing a threat to the health of 
their community. However, about one third (31%) think they do. The findings also show that 30% of 
male respondents and 30% of female respondents to be somewhat less concerned about any potential 
health threat posed by Ebola survivors.
Figure 18: Ebola survivors as threat to the health of community
Majority of the respondents (70%) say they can buy fresh vegetables sold by Ebola survivors although 
younger respondents (15 to 25 years old) are slightly less likely to buy fresh vegetables from Ebola 
survivors (63%). Men are slightly more comfortable with purchasing fresh vegetables from Ebola 
survivors (72%) as compared to 69% for women.
Figure 19: Buying fresh vegetables from Ebola survivors 
43% of respondents and 50% of both male and female respondents are concerned about going to a health 
care facility that has treated Ebola patients.
31% 30% 32%
66% 67% 65%
3% 3% 3%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
Overall (n=500) Man (n=246) Woman (n=254)
Do you think Ebola survivors pose a threat to the health of your 
community? 
Yes No I don't know
70% 72% 69%
29% 27% 31%
1% 1% 1%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
Overall (n=500) Man (n=246) Woman (n=254)
Would you buy fresh vegetables from a trader who is an Ebola survivor?
Yes No don't know
Page | 20
74% 76% 72%
25% 23% 27%
1% 1% 1%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
Overall (n=500) Man (n=246) Woman (n=254)
Would you welcome back neighbors who 
survived Ebola?
Yes No don't know
Figure 23: Welcoming Ebola survivors
Figure 20: Going to a health facility that treated Ebola patients 
About one third of respondents (34%) think that the children of Ebola survivors are a threat to their 
schoolmates. The result is slightly higher for female respondents (36%) as compared to their male 
counterpart (32%).
Figure 21: Risk of Ebola survivors in schools 
On the other hand, 74% of respondents said they would not mind welcoming their neighbors who 
survived Ebola – an identical result for those who are willing to welcome Ebola orphans.
 
43% 44% 43%
53% 52% 54%
4% 4% 3%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
Overall (n=500) Man (n=246) Woman (n=254)
Are you concerned about going to a health care facility that has treated 
Ebola patients?
Yes No don't know
34% 32% 36%
62% 63% 61%
4% 5% 3%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
Overall (n=500) Man (n=246) Woman (n=254)
Do you think a child who has survived Ebola will put other students at 
risk if they return to school?
Yes No don't know
74% 76% 72%
25% 23% 27%
1% 1% 1%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
Overall (n=500) Man (n=246) Woman (n=254)
Would you welcome a child into your 
family if they lost both parents to Ebola? 
Yes No I don't know
Figure 22: Welcoming Ebola orphans
Page | 21
For 59% of respondents, Ebola survivors do not represent a danger as they said they would embrace a 
person who has survived Ebola as compared 40% who would not. The figure is slightly higher among 
men (61%) as compared to women (57%).
Figure 24: Embracing Ebola survivor
The result below shows that 65% of respondents would eat from the same plate as Ebola survivors and 
this finding is similar across both genders with 66% of men and 65% of women responding in the same 
way.
Figure 25: Eating with an Ebola survivor
59% 61% 57%
40% 39% 41%
1% 1% 2%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
Overall (n=500) Man (n=246) Woman (n=254)
Would you embrace someone who survived Ebola?
Yes No don't know
65% 66% 65%
33% 33% 34%
1% 2% 1%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
Overall (n=500) Man (n=246) Woman (n=254)
Would you like to eat from the same plate of food as an Ebola 
survivor? 
Yes No I don't know
Page | 22
3.1.6 Intervention of Internews radio program 
The research finding shows that 40% of respondents have heard about the Internews radio program, 
Tolobi Nini. The largest audience reported was in Bikoro, where 51% of respondents said they have 
heard about the radio program, compared to 38% in Mbandaka and 36% in Wangata health zones. The
percentage of men who said they have heard about “Tolobi nini” is higher (45%) than that of women 
(35%).
Of those who listened to the radio program, 95% said they were satisfied with the program as 
compared to 5%. The result is almost the same for male and female respondents.
Figure 27: Satisfaction with the Tolobi Nini radio program
95% 95% 94%
5% 5% 6%
90%
92%
94%
96%
98%
100%
Overall (n=198) Man (n=110) Woman (n=88)
Are you satisfied with the way this Tolibi Nini program was 
broadcast?
Yes No
40% 45% 35%
57% 52% 62%
3% 3% 3%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
Overall (n=500) Man (n=246) Woman (n=254)
Have you ever heard of or listened to the Tolibi Nini radio program 
produced by Internews? 
Yes No I don't know
Figure 26: Heard about Tolobi Nini radio program
Page | 23
Nearly all respondents who are aware of the “Tolobi nini” program believe that the program has greatly 
influenced some of their practices/behaviors, the most important of which is handwashing with 81% of 
respondents citing it. Across all three health zones in Bikoro, Mbandaka and Wangata, at least 98% of 
respondents attributed change in practices or behaviors to the radio program.
The research findings suggest that those who listened to the Tolobi Nini radio program adopted new 
positive behaviors or practices and this includes refraining from touching the sick or dead (90% of 
respondents) and regular hand washing practices applied by 89% of respondents.
If so, what are some of the behaviors or practices that 
you have changed by listening to Tolobi Nini?
Overall 
(n=188)
Male 
(n=106)
Female 
(n=82)
Do not touch the sick or dead 90% 90% 73%
Regular hand washing 89% 90% 90%
Agree to a safe and secure burial for your loved ones 65% 67% 63%
Report early for treatment if unwell 60% 59% 61%
Accept Ebola survivors into communities 57% 52% 65%
Willingness to be vaccinated against Ebola 43% 40% 49%
I don't know 14% 11% 17%
Others 3% 0% 0%
Table 15: List of behaviors or practices influenced by the Tolobi Nini radio program
When asked about the preferred communication channel to share concerns about Ebola, the majority of
32% of respondents cited telephone (this finding varied across locations). In Bikoro, 51% of the 
respondents chose telephone contact versus 22% for radio, while 59% of the respondents in Mbandaka 
suggested direct communication (face to face). In Wangata, respondents said they preferred telephone 
contact as first option (40%) with radio (33%) as the second option.
If you have concerns about Ebola and other diseases, 
what is your preferred channel of communication 
with aid workers?
Overall 
(n=302)
Male
(n=136)
Female
(n=166)
Telephone 32% 34% 31%
Radio 27% 29% 27%
Face to face 27% 29% 26%
Local authorities 12% 10% 14%
Public event 2% 1% 2%
98%
99%
98%
2%
1%
2%
96%
97%
98%
99%
100%
Overall (n=191) Man (n=107) Woman (n=84)
Do you think the TOLOBI NINI radio program has helped you 
change certain practices or behaviors about Ebola and other 
endemic diseases?
Yes No
Figure 28: Influence of the Tolobi Nini radio program
Page | 24
Social Media 2% 3% 1%
Suggestion Box 1% 2%
Religious leaders 1% 2% 1%
Others 1% 2%
Table 16: Preferred channel of community with aid worker on Ebola
3.1.7 Coronavirus 
The data collected shows that 57% of the population interviewed is aware about the existence ofCovid￾19 in the DRC. Awareness is much higher among men (63%) as compared to women (51%). However, 
awareness level is the lowest in Wangata (43%) as compared to the other two health zones.
Figure 29: Existence of Covid-19 in DRC
The result below shows only 9% believe that traditional healers can cure Covid-19 with 85% holding a 
contrary belief – this findings is almost the same across both genders and all age categories.
Figure 30: Can traditional healers cure Covid-19?
The findings show that 60% of respondents view facemasks as a protective measure against Covid-19 –
which is almost identical for both male and female respondents. 
57% 63% 51%
38% 32%
44%
5% 4% 5%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
Overall (n=500) Man (n=246) Woman (n=254)
Do you think that Covid-19 exists in the DRC?
Yes No Don't know
9% 9% 8%
85% 84% 85%
7% 7% 6%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
Overall (n=500) Man (n=246) Woman (n=254)
Do you believe traditional healers can cure Covid-19?
Yes No Don't know
Page | 25
Figure 31: Use of facemask as a Covid-19 protective measure
Even though majority of respondnats are aware of the existence of Covid-19, only 33% are willing to 
take the vaccine or recommend it to someone. The figure is slighty less for women (30%) as compared 
to 36% of men who are willing to take the vaccine.
Lack of confidence in the vaccine (46%) is the main reason given by those who are reportedly unwilling 
to take it or recommend it to someone, followed by the likelihood of being infected by the vaccine itself
(26%). 
Why wouldn't you agree to get the Covid-19 vaccine or 
recommend it to someone?
Overall 
(n=321)
Male
(n=149)
Female
(n=172)
I don't trust the vaccine 46% 47% 45%
The vaccine is infected 26% 27% 25%
I am healthy and do not need it. 17% 13% 21%
I am not aware of it 5% 7% 3%
Other 7% 7% 6%
Table 17: Reasons for not taking Covid-19 vaccine
3.2 Qualitative Findings
A. General perception of the population about the Ebola epidemic 
60% 61% 60%
34% 34% 35%
5% 5% 6%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
Overall (n=500) Man (n=246) Woman (n=254)
Do you think wearing a face mask can protect you from Covid-19?
Yes No Don't know
33% 36% 30%
64% 61% 68%
3% 4% 2%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
Overall (n=500) Man (n=246) Woman (n=254)
Would you be willing to get the Covid-19 vaccine or recommend it to 
someone?
Yes No I don't know
Figure32: Covid-19 vaccine
Page | 26
o Majority of respondents seem confused about Ebola. For some, Ebola is either a disease or a 
virus; for others, it is an epidemic or a pandemic; Some perceive Ebola as a death sentence 
invoking fear in communities.
o The sources of information about Ebola differed among different respondents. While most
people found out about Ebola from radio, family, in the street, at work, or on television; small 
number of respondents interviewed said they heard about it from relatives residing in far away
communities such as North Ubangi and Kinshasa.
o Respondents claim that some believe Ebola is the result of an infection from animals. Others 
perceive it as a punishment for settling old scores - a curse only transmitted to the guilty parties. 
o There are some who believe it is an invention of the government supported by doctors to take 
money out of the state coffers.
B. Communication on Ebola
o Communication was mostly preventative, done through various channels including the media, 
churches, ringtones from telephone calls, songs, posters.
o The preventative messages disseminated through ringtone during a phone call, were at times, 
ambiguous. For example, Ebola kills and there is no cure but if you suspect to be sick with 
Ebola, go to the nearest hospital for treatment. 
o Despite the numerous communication methods on Ebola preventative methods, the population 
was reluctant to heed to the message particularly on Ebola vaccines for fear of getting sick. But 
this changed following community deaths from Ebola.
C. Impressions of the project
Respondents expressed appreciation for the project, which included:
o Confidence: the presence of a specialist during the program certified the truthfulness of the 
information given and encouraged a change of mentality; 
o Relevance: the project provided relevant information on several diseases including preventative
methods, and what measures to take in case of a disease outbreak.
o Awareness-raising: The project reminded the population about the presence of the disease to 
positively influence perception and practices; 
o Interactivity: the project provided opportunity for audience engagement – there was a question 
and answer session that allowed the listeners to understand the subject better, ask questions and
receive feedback to their questions.
o Captivating: The radio programming and community events captured everyone's attention, 
especially those of children. “Through this program, we have benefited from advice without 
having to move; we are no longer ignorant, so we take precautions for ourselves and our 
children.”
Nevertheless, some concerns were raised such as:
o The duration of the radio program was seen as limited. 
o Although the messages on the radio program were clear and easy to follow, it would have been 
great if the radio program was done in several local languages;
o Some of the presenters of the radio program were slow, and others tended to impose things on 
the listeners;
o Some of the broadcast times were late and did not allow all family members to follow the 
program.
D. Contribution of the project
Page | 27
o The project is credited to having contributed to influencing the population to adopt new 
behaviors, notably handwashing and wearing of facemasks. Handwashing has become a 
common occurrence that people do not only do it before eating but even afterseveral movements 
for fear of catching or transmitting diseases to others. 
o The project also contributed to improving vaccine acceptance addressing some of the fears and 
concerns that people had about the Ebola vaccines.
E. Capacity building
The trainings were deemed to be largely positive and this includes: 
o Change in the presentation format of radio programs to reach target audience;
o Efficient production taking into account feedback from the population;
o Regular broadcasting of radio programs each week and development of various topics on health
issues to increase audience base;
o Respect for editorial standards and the use of research to determine the subject or issues to be 
discussed.
However, listeners club members and radio practitioners expressed the following concerns:
o Length of radio program (15 minutes) was deemed too short with limitations on the public to 
participate through direct telephone calls.
o Lack of in-depth training on other aspects of journalism with the training focusing only on health 
emergencies. Radio partners expressed the importance of training on technical skills 
development such as editing of audio content.
F. Recommendations from respondents
o Diversify the language to reach a significant number of people;
o Extend project activities beyond Mbandaka and Bikoro;
o Insert a testimonial space: this is to give voice to the inhabitants to testify the impact of 
Internews' actions and gain the trust of the unbelievers;
o Increase the number of broadcasts of the radio program, Tolobi nini
o Increase the duration of the program because the current timing does not allow the speakers to 
explain the subjects more thoroughly. 
4. Conclusion
While the project encountered several challenges including delays in the commencement of field 
activities, the endline results show an appreciation of the work of Internews in supporting local partners 
and strengthening their capacity to respond to health emergencies. Though this may not guarantee local 
partner readiness to respond to emerging health issues, the endline underscores the dearth in partner 
capacity in health radio programming and engaging communities. 
The project was able to pivot to respond emerging health challenges including a monkeypox outbreak 
that was spreading across several health zones where Internews support to local radio partners and 
engagement with the Provincial Health Division helped provided life-saving information to audiences 
at a time of a scale down in the work of humanitarian actors following the end of the Ebola outbreak.
The endline result shows how a combination of rumor data collection, radio programming and 
community engagement can help change perception and positively influence behavior. The relevance 
of Internews radio program, Tolobi Nini which was credited for changing certain behaviors and practices 
of individuals is a case in point. But these gains can only be sustained with long term investment in local 
media that respond to their immediate and emerging needs.
Page | 28
5. Annexes
Annex 5.1 Detailed analysis
Information%20Save
s%20Lives_Equateur%
Annex 5.2 Survey Questionnaire
Questionnaire_ENG.d
ocx
Annex 5.3 Discussion and Interview Guide (Key Informant Interview)
KII_Discussion_Guide
_LocalMedia.docx
Annex 5.4 Discussion and Interview Guide (Focus Group Discussion)
FGD_Discussion_Gui
de.docx