Kampala, Uganda: In the face of the escalating Mpox outbreak, East African leaders are joining forces to combat the spread of the disease. The Interdisciplinary Consortium for Epidemic Research (ICER) through the Science, Technology, and Innovation Secretariat (STI) is hosting a critical symposium in Kampala, Uganda, bringing together top researchers, policymakers, and health experts from across the region.
The World Health Organisation’s declaration of Mpox as a public health emergency of international concern has sounded the alarm, prompting swift action from regional leaders. Africa’s CDC’s designation of Mpox as a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security underscores the situation’s urgency.
Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni, a staunch advocate for regional cooperation, emphasised the importance of collective action. “We cannot afford to tackle this outbreak alone. Our shared borders demand a unified response.”
Distinguished speakers include Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Ahmed Ogwell Ouma, Prof. Bruce Kirenga, Uganda Minister of Health Jane Ruth Aceng, WHO Mpox Incident Manager, Chikwe Ihekweazu, and Dr. Catherine Kyobutungi.
ICER Symposium: A Platform for Collaboration
The ICER symposium offers a crucial platform for East African nations to:
- Share research findings.
- Coordinate cross-border control measures.
- Enhance clinical care and frontline response
- Ensure equitable access to medical countermeasures.
- Mobilise funding for Mpox research
Key Players
Attendees include:
- ICER scientists and member institutions
- Researchers from Mpox-affected countries
- Policymakers from East African governments
- Ethics and regulatory bodies
- International health agencies
Makerere University Lung Institute hosts
Makerere University Lung Institute, a renowned centre of excellence, is hosting the symposium. “We’re proud to facilitate this critical conversation,” said Institute Director, Prof. Bruce Kirenga.
As East Africa unites against Mpox, the ICER symposium marks a pivotal moment in the region’s response. Together, leaders can strengthen regional defences and protect communities.
Event Partners
- World Health Organisation (WHO): Global health leadership
- Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC): Regional health expertise
- Institut Pasteur: Scientific research excellence
- Uganda Ministry of Health: National health policy guidance
