The United Kingdom has committed £3.1 million to assist the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in combating the ongoing outbreaks of mpox and cholera, which are posing significant health risks in the region. This funding, which marks a new partnership with UNICEF, was announced by the UK’s Minister for Africa, Lord Collins of Highbury, during his visit to the National Institute of Biomedical Research in DRC. The initiative is expected to positively impact over 4.4 million people across affected communities, while also working to prevent the spread of mpox to neighbouring African nations.

The announcement comes on the heels of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) declaration that the upsurge of mpox cases in DRC, alongside a growing number of affected countries in Africa, constitutes a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). This declaration underscores the urgency of the situation and the need for a coordinated international response.

Lord Collins highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, "Working together, with our partners and using the expertise and dedication of Congolese scientists, including those at the world-leading research centre I have visited in DRC, our support will play an important role in ensuring global health security for all."

The UK's involvement is not limited to financial support; the UK Health Security Agency is closely monitoring the situation, collaborating with international bodies such as WHO, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, and various national public health agencies. This coordinated effort aims to strengthen the regional response to the outbreaks and mitigate the risk of these diseases spreading beyond the current borders.

In addition to addressing the immediate health crisis, the UK’s funding and partnership with UNICEF are designed to enhance the resilience of health systems in the DRC. This includes improving the capability of local health authorities to manage future outbreaks and reducing the overall burden of disease on the population.

The UK’s proactive stance in supporting DRC and the wider African region reflects a broader commitment to global health security. By helping to contain these outbreaks at their source, the UK is contributing to a safer and healthier future for all.

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