The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) announced late Monday its decision to ease COVID-19 restrictions, including lifting curfews throughout the country except in Ituri and North Kivu provinces which are under a state of siege.

According to the latest assessment by the DRC's health authorities, the pandemic situation across the country has improved, especially in its capital Kinshasa, which was previously considered as the epicenter of the pandemic in the country.

However, health authorities fear the possible occurrence of a fifth wave between April and July, citing the low vaccination rate among the population.

The DRC has reported to date 85,839 confirmed cases, including 1,335 deaths.