The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has announced it aims to raise $600 million to combat a severe mpox outbreak on the continent, according to the agency’s head on Thursday.
Jean Kaseya, Director General of Africa CDC, expressed confidence in raising the necessary funds, despite earlier estimates of $245 million for the response. Kaseya assured reporters that he is optimistic about meeting the funding target.
The World Health Organization declared mpox a global health emergency in mid-August after a new strain began spreading from the Democratic Republic of Congo to neighboring countries. The outbreak has since raised significant concern.
In August, Africa CDC had reported securing approximately $20 million out of the initial $245 million required. The increase in funding needs, excluding vaccine costs, has not been detailed by Kaseya.
Kaseya indicated that the funding could come from various sources, including African Union countries, development partners, philanthropies, and the private sector. He highlighted that the international vaccine alliance GAVI has pledged support, and discussions are ongoing with The Pandemic Fund.
A potential reduction in vaccine costs by 80%-90% is anticipated through technology transfer to the continent. Africa CDC has initiated talks with Danish biotech firm Bavarian Nordic to manufacture the mpox vaccine locally, aiming to enhance affordability.
The funding progress will be announced at the U.N. General Assembly in New York later this month. Africa CDC data reveals over 26,000 suspected mpox cases and 724 deaths in Africa this year alone.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo, children under 15 represent about 60% of suspected cases and 80% of deaths, according to UNICEF. The situation remains critical as efforts to control the outbreak intensify.