Mpox research coordination to effectively support response efforts in Africa: Lessons learned, challenges, and way forward

Abstract

Mpox, caused by the mpox virus, has evolved from isolated cases in endemic regions to widespread outbreaks affecting multiple countries in Africa. The Research and Innovation pillar of the Continental Incident Management Support Team (IMST) was established to generate evidence that supports response efforts, including analysing the efficiency and effectiveness of clinical trials and health research on mpox across Africa. This article describes the achievements, challenges faced and lessons learned from mpox research efforts. The contributions of research to the mpox response by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) are crucial to managing infectious disease outbreaks across the continent. Multiple research initiatives were coordinated across Member States, including socio-behavioural, epidemiological, diagnostic, vaccine and therapeutic studies. Key achievements included the establishment of a coordinated continental research platform, initiation of multi-country studies and mapping of ongoing mpox research activities across Africa. Challenges included bureaucratic procedures, delays in funding disbursement, ethical approval bottlenecks, coordination complexities and surveillance gaps that affected timely research implementation. Addressing these gaps has the potential to enhance evidence-based decision-making and provide valuable lessons for improving future epidemic preparedness and response in Africa.
Contribution: The mpox research demonstrated the vitality of collaborative research efforts, the need for continuous, systematic monitoring of its progress and the need for real-time dissemination of research findings to inform practices that ensure an effective response to mpox. Real-time dissemination of research findings, starting with early community engagement, is critical to ensure that research findings are translated into action.