Africa CDC Applauds $128.89 Million Allocation to Combat Mpox Across 10 Nations

Addis Ababa, ETHIOPIA – September 21, 2024: The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has officially expressed its heartfelt gratitude and commendation following the Pandemic Fund’s swift allocation of $128.89 million to assist ten African Union member states grappling with the mpox outbreak. This prompt financial support underscores the global commitment to tackling pressing health security challenges facing the continent.

The countries benefiting from this crucial funding include the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, Sudan, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Somalia, and South Sudan. This investment will significantly enhance the national and regional capacities for disease surveillance, laboratory diagnostics, and workforce development. In addition, the funding is set to play a vital role in implementing the Africa CDC-WHO Mpox Continental Preparedness and Response Plan for Africa, aiming to fortify health security and effectively address the ongoing mpox crisis.

In a collaborative effort, Africa CDC, WHO, and a host of other international organizations, including UNICEF, WFP, IFRC, and IOM, have created the Continental Mpox Preparedness and Response Plan (CMPRP). The CMPRP is executed under a unified strategic framework that emphasizes coordinated efforts—ONE Team, ONE Plan, ONE Budget, and ONE Monitoring & Evaluation framework. This structured approach focuses on improving disease surveillance and diagnostics, boosting workforce competencies, and enhancing public health systems while engaging communities for a more effective response across Africa.

The enthusiastic backing from the Pandemic Fund not only fortifies technical capacities but also reflects a strong confidence in the continent’s resilience and capability to overcome health adversities through international collaboration and evidence-based strategies.

Africa CDC is dedicated to closely partnering with governments, regional organizations, and global allies to ensure that this support results in tangible improvements on the ground, maximizing its effectiveness, transparency, and sustainability. The organization is committed to fostering a safer, healthier future for all people in Africa and eagerly anticipates ongoing collaborations in this noble endeavor.

This substantial allocation comes at a critical juncture when the continent faces numerous health challenges, and the commitment from the global community offers a glimmer of hope. As Africa strives to enhance its health systems and combat diseases, the success of the CMPRP could pave the way for a more robust and resilient health infrastructure moving forward.

A Healthier Tomorrow: United We Stand

Let us unite in supporting public health initiatives across Africa. Together, we can confront health emergencies head-on and secure a stronger future for our communities! Stay informed, stay engaged, and let’s inspire action for health security everywhere.