Cape Town – President Cyril Ramaphosa has voiced serious concern over the escalating Mpox outbreak across Africa, as cases and deaths rise sharply.
Ramaphosa addressed the Mpox outbreak in his capacity as the AU Champion for Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness, and Response (PPPR).
“In my role as the AU Champion on PPPR, I have been closely monitoring the evolving Mpox situation, regularly briefed by the Director-General of Africa CDC and PPPR Commission,” he said in a statement.
Ramaphosa noted a 160% increase in cases from 2023 to 2024, with 17,541 cases and 517 deaths reported so far.
The outbreak now spans 16 AU member states.
Ramaphosa supports the Africa CDC’s declaration of Mpox as a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security and the WHO’s global health emergency declaration, calling for enhanced international support and equitable access to medical resources.
“This crucial decision empowers Africa CDC to lead and coordinate our collective response efforts, strengthening the Mpox response at every level – from community engagement to collaboration with the highest political authorities and our international partners.”
He emphasised the need for increased funding, improved response capabilities, and equitable distribution of vaccines and treatments.
He also urged for the finalisation of the Pandemic Agreement to ensure fair access to resources globally.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
