By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has donated 20,000 doses of Mpox vaccine to Sierra Leone to aid the country’s efforts in responding to a recent outbreak of the viral disease. The vaccine shipment is expected to arrive at Freetown International Airport on Sunday, June 1, 2025.
The timely support from the UAE comes as Sierra Leone ramps up its public health response to contain the spread of Mpox, which has emerged as a growing health concern in parts of the country. The Ministry of Health and Sanitation, in collaboration with international partners, has been working to strengthen surveillance, case management, and vaccination strategies.
Reacting to the donation, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to the UAE, Rashid Sesay, expressed deep appreciation for the gesture and highlighted the strong ties between the two nations. “On behalf of His Excellency President Dr Julius Maada Bio and the people of Sierra Leone, I extend my deepest gratitude to our UAE friends for this kind and timely assistance,” Ambassador Sesay said. “This move reinforces the strength of the bilateral and friendly relationship between our two countries.”
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral zoonotic disease that has seen a resurgence in several countries over recent years. Though not as contagious as other diseases such as COVID-19, Mpox can cause serious symptoms including fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. In some cases, especially without timely medical intervention, complications may arise.
The 20,000-dose donation is expected to significantly boost Sierra Leone’s immunization capacity, particularly among vulnerable groups and healthcare workers who are at higher risk of exposure.
Health authorities in Sierra Leone have welcomed the vaccine donation as a critical tool in preventing the further spread of the disease. Officials say the vaccines will be distributed across the most affected regions immediately after arrival, with priority given to frontline responders and at-risk populations.
This donation also reflects the UAE’s broader commitment to global health solidarity and pandemic preparedness. Over the past few years, the UAE has provided critical health and humanitarian support to countries across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Ministry of Health has announced that further updates on the vaccination rollout and public health measures will be provided in the coming days. Meanwhile, the public is being urged to remain vigilant, practice good hygiene, and report any symptoms associated with Mpox to the nearest health facility.
The arrival of the vaccines marks a significant step forward in Sierra Leone’s fight against Mpox and highlights the importance of international cooperation in responding to public health emergencies.
