The allocation of funds from existing COVID-19 resources highlights the AU's adaptability in repurposing resources to address emerging health threats. This approach showcases the importance of maintaining flexible funding mechanisms for rapid response to various public health challenges.

The emergency funding represents a significant but relatively modest allocation compared to some previous health crisis funding in Africa as seen with the COVID-19 Response, the Horn of Africa Crisis, the EU-AU Partnership as well as the Africa Epidemics Fund among others.

During a media briefing by the Director-General, of Africa CDC last week, H.E. Dr Jean Kaseya noted that 16 countries were affected in 2020. There are 18 countries at critical risk of being affected. Before the briefing, six new countries reported cases of Mpox.

H.E. Dr Jean Kaseya in his address raised concerns regarding the alarming increase in the rate of cross-border transmission that has resulted in the first-time reporting of confirmed Mpox cases in non-endemic countries such as Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda and Burundi. “This new incident demonstrates the need for a collective and collaborative approach in curbing the spread of the disease”, said Dr Kaseya. Some of the key challenges affecting the Mpox response in Africa include insecurity, limited understanding of epidemiology and transmission dynamics of Mpox in Africa and the complexity of the outbreak among others.

Africa CDC confirms that vaccine and therapeutics access is a challenge in addition to the diagnostic capabilities of countries in the region. There are 200,000 vaccine doses (against the 10 million needed) to address the Mpox outbreak. This comes as a contribution from the EU and other partners.

This funding comes at a critical time, as the Mpox situation in Africa has become increasingly concerning. Data shows that there is a higher burden of cases now than there was in 2022 when the World Health Organization declared the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). The fatality rate is also increasing and this is thought to be linked to cases of immunodeficiency as seen in persons living with HIV. Recent reports indicate that a deadlier strain of Mpox has spread to multiple African countries, with Uganda reporting its first two cases. The outbreak, which began in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has now affected neighbouring countries, alerting them to the need for a coordinated and more robust regional response.

The AU's swift action in approving these funds demonstrates:

1. Proactive leadership in addressing public health crises

2. Recognition of the importance of regional cooperation in disease control

3. Commitment to supporting the Africa CDC's vital role in continental health security

The Institute for Global Health and Development applauds the AU's decisive action and commitment to preparedness and response. We also acknowledge the efforts of establishing a special committee of about 20 scientists to guide and advise the DG of Africa CDC in declaring the Mpox outbreak as a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security (PHECS). We hope that the proposed advisory by the Emergency Consultative Group (ECG), led by Professor Salim Abdul Karimby will be met with the required response.

Moving forward, it will be essential to:

1. Ensure efficient distribution and utilization of the emergency response funds

2. Strengthen cross-border collaboration and information sharing

3. Support ongoing research and development of vaccines and treatments

4. Enhance public health infrastructure and capacity across the continent

The AU's response to the Mpox outbreak serves as a model for proactive continental health governance and underscores the importance of maintaining robust, national public health institutions capable of responding to emerging threats.

Read more:

1. The Permanent Representatives Committee of the African Union Provides Emergency Approval of $10.4 Million to Africa CDC for Mpox Outbreak Response

2. Mpox Situation in Africa

3. Disease Outbreak News: Mpox - Democratic Republic of the Congo

4. Mpox outbreaks declared in Kenya and Central African Republic. The race is on to contain the spread

5. East African Community calls for heightened public awareness to combat spread of Mpox