Top health officials from Africa met with US representatives to discuss recent reductions in global health funding, including a major cut to Gavi, a program that provides vaccines to low- and middle-income countries. The news of the funding termination comes as African nations continue to battle multiple disease outbreaks, including a growing mpox crisis.

US Ends $2.6 Billion Grant to Gavi

The United States has withdrawn a $2.6 billion grant to Gavi that was set to run until 2030. The decision, revealed in a USAID document sent to Congress, signals a significant reduction in US support for global vaccination efforts. Gavi’s CEO, Sania Nishtar, emphasized that US contributions have been crucial in reducing child mortality and strengthening global health security. The organization warned that the funding cut could put millions of lives at risk.

During discussions in Washington, African health officials stressed that global health security depends on preventive efforts beyond US borders. They acknowledged the American government’s business-oriented approach to health but highlighted ongoing African initiatives to boost local vaccine production and digitize healthcare.

Sierra Leone Expands Mpox Vaccination Amid Rising Cases

Mpox cases continue to surge in parts of Africa, with Uganda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo reporting the highest numbers. Sierra Leone, which saw its first cases in January, has become a regional hotspot. The country has now launched its mpox vaccination campaign, joining six other African nations. Officials received 58,300 vaccine doses, prioritizing healthcare workers, close contacts, and other high-risk groups in the most affected districts.

The World Health Organization warned that Freetown, Sierra Leone’s capital, is experiencing a rapid rise in infections, primarily among students, young adults, and business professionals. The outbreak is driven by high mobility and close-contact environments, such as schools. So far, 113 cases have been confirmed, with two fatalities linked to underlying health conditions.

Africa CDC Plans Next Phase of Mpox Response

To curb the outbreak, Africa CDC has launched a six-month response plan aiming to reduce mpox cases in endemic areas and strengthen healthcare systems. The strategy includes intensified contact tracing, with a target of identifying at least 20 primary and 200 secondary contacts per patient.

A major vaccination drive is also planned, aiming to immunize 6.4 million people. However, officials say an additional $224 million in funding is needed to implement these measures effectively. African health leaders continue to seek support from international partners to sustain their fight against the outbreak.