Rwanda becomes first in Africa to begin Mpox vaccination

Rwanda has launched the first mpox vaccination campaign in Africa, marking a significant step in the continent’s fight against the disease.

As of Tuesday, the country administered 300 doses of the vaccine to high-risk individuals in a border region with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Jean Kaseya, Director-General of the Africa Centre for Disease Control (Africa CDC), confirmed the commencement of the campaign, stating the urgency of curbing the outbreak.

“This outbreak must be stopped very quickly,” Kaseya said.

He also pointed out the need for local vaccine production, stating, “We are working closely with our manufacturers and partners to ensure these vaccines are produced in Africa.”

The Rwandan Ministry of Health targeted health workers, cross-border business operators, hospitality staff, and other high-risk populations in the initial rollout.