The Pandemic Fund

Washington, D.C. — In a significant move to address the escalating threat of mpox in Africa, [1]  the Pandemic Fund Board has swiftly approved US$128.89 million to support 10 countries impacted by the disease. This fast-tracked allocation under the Fund’s second Call for Proposals demonstrates its ability to respond with speed and agility to global health emergencies and reaffirms its unwavering commitment to protecting the most vulnerable populations. 

The approved funding prioritizes countries experiencing active circulation of Clade I and facing acute emerging threats. Benefiting countries include the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, Sudan, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Somalia, and South Sudan. The support will bolster country and regional capacity in critical areas, like disease surveillance, diagnostics, laboratory networks, and health workforce -- all essential to strengthening health security in the region, while addressing the immediate challenges posed by mpox.

The five projects that will be supported under the fast-tracked allocation for mpox will enhance national and cross-border surveillance and early warning systems; strengthen laboratory capacities for disease detection, sequencing, and genomic surveillance; build a skilled workforce equipped to detect and rapidly respond to health threats and emergencies; and foster multisectoral coordination for pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response through a One Health approach. [2] 

 As part of this important decision, the Pandemic Fund increased the total envelope for the second Call for Proposals by US$47.4 million, bringing the overall funding to US$547.4 million. In October, the Fund’s Board will reconvene to decide on the allocation of the remaining funding under the second Call for Proposals. 

The Pandemic Fund’s support for countries affected by mpox is crucial for implementing the WHO-Africa CDC Mpox Continental Preparedness and Response Plan for Africa. This assistance not only enhances the continent’s capacity to tackle current health threats but also strengthens its ability to respond to future challenges. Additionally, it aligns with the Pandemic Fund’s broader mission of building resilient health systems and ensuring that all low- and middle-income countries are prepared to prevent, detect, and respond swiftly to emerging disease threats.