Morocco produces Africa’s first mpox tests as the continent tries to rely less on imports
December 8, 2024
Africa is taking critical steps toward medical independence as Moroccan company Moldiag begins producing mpox tests amid a widespread outbreak. With over 59,000 cases and 1,164 deaths reported this year, timely diagnostics are essential. The World Health Organization’s plan to distribute mpox tests, vaccines, and treatments to vulnerable populations comes after global criticism for its delayed response. Yet, many African regions remain underserved. In remote areas like Congo’s South Kivu province, doctors still rely on visible symptoms due to the absence of tests. Strengthening local test production is vital to containing outbreaks and ensuring equitable healthcare access across the continent.
In a significant milestone for Africa’s public health system, Moroccan biotech firm Moldiag is now producing mpox tests, addressing a crucial gap in the continent’s medical supply chain. This move comes as Africa grapples with more than 59,000 reported mpox cases and 1,164 deaths across 20 countries this year. Historically reliant on imported medical supplies, African nations faced severe challenges accessing COVID-19 testing kits during the pandemic—a scenario public health leaders vowed never to repeat.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has since intensified its efforts, announcing plans to deliver mpox tests, vaccines, and treatments to the world's most vulnerable populations. However, logistical hurdles persist. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, most of its 26 provinces still lack adequate lab facilities, forcing doctors in remote areas like South Kivu province to rely on visible symptoms for diagnosis. This lack of testing capacity complicates efforts to track the virus’s spread and hampers effective outbreak control.
Moldiag’s launch of locally produced tests signals a promising shift toward reducing Africa's dependency on imported diagnostic tools. By fostering domestic biotech innovation, countries can build resilient health systems capable of responding swiftly to future health emergencies. However, increased investment in healthcare infrastructure and expanded access to diagnostics in remote regions remain urgent priorities.
As Africa’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and global health organizations ramp up distribution plans, closing healthcare access gaps through locally produced supplies must remain central to the global response. In an interconnected world, Africa’s strengthened testing capacity is a win not only for the continent but for global health security.