The British High Commission in Kampala has announced a £1 million funding package to support Uganda’s efforts in tackling the Mpox outbreak.

This was announced by Philip Smith, the Acting British High Commissioner to Uganda, on October 10, 2024, while meeting the different health officials from the Ministry of Health.

During his visit, Philip Smith emphasized the importance of this collaboration.

“It is critical that we work with the Government of Uganda to counter this outbreak. We are pleased to announce this additional funding is being released immediately to support a timely response,” Smith said.

Smith highlighted that the support will be focused on affected districts, adding that the UK will stand with the government and people of Uganda in tackling the outbreak.

This funding announcement comes after the World Health Organization (WHO) recently declared the rise of Mpox in the DRC and several other African nations a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).

Minister for Health Jane Ruth Aceng acknowledged the longstanding partnership with the UK and appreciated the £1 million contribution via implementing partners Baylor Uganda and the Infectious Disease Institute.

Aceng also expressed her gratitude for the collaboration, remarking, “The UK has always been a key partner with the Government of Uganda on our outbreak response, and this funding further strengthens that relationship.”

This funding aims to strengthen local health authorities’ response capabilities through expert partners like Baylor College of Medicine and the Infectious Disease Institute in helping with Uganda’s overall Mpox response plan.

It is expected to improve coordination, surveillance, and community engagement as Uganda battles the outbreak.