In response to the rapid spread of mpox across Africa, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) has urgently appealed for $27.8 million to help contain the outbreak and protect migrants, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and mobile communities. Since August 2024, mpox cases in Africa have surged from 2,800 to over 9,300, now affecting 34 countries. This expansion led IOM to broaden its initial response to cover a wider range of African nations, as part of a Multi-country Mpox Preparedness and Response Plan that runs until February 2025.
The new plan will focus on essential services for those most vulnerable to mpox, including health screenings, education on disease prevention, and support for cross-border coordination to enhance regional containment efforts. In cooperation with local communities and governments, IOM aims to establish better health security at critical points of entry, which are often frequented by mobile populations.
The nature of mpox, which spreads through close contact, poses significant risks to migrants and displaced populations. Living in crowded areas with limited healthcare resources, these groups face a higher chance of infection. Dr. Poonam Dhavan, IOM Director for Migration Health, noted that urgent funding is needed to assist the organization in its efforts to stop the spread and protect high-risk communities across Africa.
Since the recent mpox outbreak, IOM has already made strides in several African countries. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and Guinea, the organization has conducted over one million health screenings. In addition, over 2,000 border officials and health workers in countries like Kenya, Libya, and South Sudan have been trained in case detection and management, strengthening early response capacities.
To raise awareness in affected areas, IOM has reached over 27,500 people with preventive messages in places like Mozambique, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. These outreach efforts are critical, particularly in areas where displaced populations face heightened exposure due to poor living conditions. In the DRC, which has been hit hardest, IOM is supporting community health programs and training health workers to deliver awareness sessions within high-risk zones, such as IDP camps.
Despite these efforts, IOM faces a severe funding shortfall, with only $1 million secured of the $18.5 million initially requested. Without additional funding, IOM’s ability to carry out essential activities at points of entry and within vulnerable communities may be jeopardized. The organization is appealing to international donors, governments, and partners to contribute to the mpox response and protect the health of migration-affected populations.
The IOM’s response plan is being implemented in close collaboration with the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO). This coordinated approach is essential in the fight to control the spread of mpox and improve health outcomes for vulnerable communities across Africa.