The Ministry of Health (MOH), with support from the World Health Organization (WHO), held a two-day Intra-Action Review (IAR) for the ongoing mpox outbreak response in Uganda. This engagement provided an opportunity to reflect, identify gaps and best practices, and refine strategies to improve the response and minimize morbidity, mortality, and the direct and indirect effects on livelihoods.
“This is a very critical exercise for the Ministry of Health and partners to review the current mpox response strategies and identify what is working well and what needs to be strengthened, giving us the opportunity to change the trajectory of the outbreak,” said Dr. Daniel Kyabayinze, the Director of Public Health.
On 24 July 2024, Uganda reported its first confirmed mpox case after samples from two adult females at Bwera Hospital in Kasese District, near the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), tested positive at the Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI). Following the outbreak declaration, MOH, in collaboration with partners, launched a coordinated response. Efforts included intensified contact tracing, testing of suspected cases, and other targeted interventions.
As of 9 March 2025, Uganda had reported 3,695 cumulative confirmed cases and 30 fatalities across 102 districts and cities.
WHO Representative to Uganda Dr. Kasonde Mwinga appreciated the Government of Uganda for leading the mpox outbreak response and the heroic efforts implemented since its declaration.
“The Ministry of Health has invested in building resilience and its rapid response to mpox and Ebola, while maintaining the provision of essential health services. This is a testament to strong leadership and effective response to the outbreak,” she said. “WHO is committed to working closely with the government and partners to control outbreaks and support response efforts, which are vital in saving lives.”
An Intra-Action Review is a qualitative review of actions taken to respond to an emergency or public health event, aimed at identifying best practices and areas for improvement to be better prepared for the future. It helps assess the functionality of national capacities during responses to health emergencies.
During IAR discussions, the team observed that a unified coordination approach, systematic partner mapping, and high-level political engagement have strengthened the mpox response, reducing duplication and improving accountability. Cross-border collaboration and the integration of digital surveillance tools have enhanced data sharing and early detection. However, resource and logistics gaps, fragmented data management, and overlapping mandates remain significant challenges, slowing response efforts.
To address these gaps, the team recommended strengthening coordination mechanisms, expanding technical guidance, and institutionalizing real-time partner tracking. Enhanced resource mobilization, improved surveillance, and decentralized laboratory capacity will help ensure timely outbreak response. Additionally, reinforcing risk communication, expanding vaccination coverage, and investing in workforce development will build long-term preparedness. Strengthening digital integration, operational research, and cross-pillar data sharing will further enhance efficiency and decision-making. A robust monitoring and evaluation framework, backed by high-level advocacy and funding alignment, will be essential for sustaining these efforts.
