IOM Expands Mpox Appeal to Reach Migrants and IDPs Across Africa
October 30, 2024
IOM has launched a $27.8 million appeal to protect migrants, IDPs, and mobile populations from mpox in Africa. Confirmed cases have surged from 2,800 in 12 countries to over 9,300 in 34 countries since August 2024. The Multi-country Response Plan runs through February 2025, focusing on health screenings, risk communication, and border coordination. IOM has screened over 1 million people, trained 2,300 officials, and reached 27,500 with awareness messages. Despite these efforts, only $1 million of the initial $18.5 million appeal has been secured, risking disruption of crucial activities.
The International Organization for Migration has launched an expanded appeal for $27.8 million to address the escalating mpox outbreak across Africa, focusing on protecting vulnerable mobile populations.
Current Situation:
- Cases increased from 2,800 to 9,300 between August and October 2024
- Spread from 12 to 34 countries
- Previous appeal of $18.5 million severely underfunded
- Only $1 million secured to date
Response Plan Details:
1. Target Populations:
- Migrants
- Internally displaced persons
- Mobile populations
- Cross-border communities
2. Key Activities:
- Health screenings
- Risk communication
- Community engagement
- Cross-border coordination
- Border control strengthening
3. Achievements to Date:
- 1,047,900 health screenings conducted
- 2,300 border officials and health workers trained
- 27,500 individuals reached with awareness messages
- 80+ community health workers trained in DRC
4. Geographic Coverage:
- Active in 11 countries including DRC, Burundi, Ghana, Kenya
- Focus on high-risk areas and IDP camps
- Special attention to cross-border regions
5. Funding Challenges:
- Significant funding gap remains
- Risk of activity disruption
- Urgent need for donor support
- Appeal for international assistance
The plan emphasizes protecting vulnerable populations living in overcrowded conditions with limited access to healthcare, highlighting the urgent need for increased financial support to maintain and expand crucial response activities.