Africa CDC Seeks Assurances from Trump Administration on Mpox Funding

DAKAR (Reuters) – Africa's main public health body is looking for reassurances regarding the funding and mpox vaccines promised by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's administration.

In September, U.S. President Joe Biden pledged $500 million and 1 million vaccine doses for an mpox response plan managed by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), addressing an ongoing outbreak.

Despite the growing number of mpox cases, the Africa CDC has noted that donors have been slow in fulfilling their financial commitments and providing the necessary vaccines to enhance the response.

When asked how Trump's election might influence U.S. support for African healthcare, Africa CDC Director John Kaseya stated that he would encourage the new administration to uphold commitments.

> "As we start to discuss with some of the officials, we'll continue to talk to them and engage them to fulfill their commitment," Kaseya informed reporters.
>
> "If they don't do that, the mistrust that we have today in Africa will lead to a major issue between the U.S. and the continent."

Recently, Trump stated he would allow anti-vaccine advocate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to make decisions regarding U.S. healthcare policy. Kennedy has faced criticism for spreading misinformation, including claims linking vaccines to autism. He mentioned that Trump had assured him control over health agencies such as the FDA, CDC, HHS, and USDA.

Kaseya added, "I'm available to fly and meet with them to discuss what Africa needs in the health area and how we can collaborate."