By: Fayia Jr. Moseray
On Thursday, August 14, 2025, the Ministry of Health (MoH) hosted a strategic panel discussion on the “Mpox Response in Sierra Leone” at the Atlantic Hotel, Aberdeen, Freetown. The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders and key partners from the country’s “Epidemic or Virus Response Team,” including the private sector, civil society, medical professionals, the newly elected Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) executive, and media practitioners from across various outlets.
Held under the theme, “National Panel Discourse on Mpox Response in Sierra Leone,” the discussion aimed to share the challenges, successes, and strategies to combat any potential future virus outbreaks in the country.
Opening the discourse, the Communications Team Lead at MoH emphasized the importance of the panel discussion, noting that it was people-centric and crucial for the nation’s health security. He urged participants to share their experiences and ideas on how Sierra Leone can strategically prepare itself to tackle future health threats.
Minister Dr. Austin Demby informed the gathering of the government’s substantial efforts to mitigate the spread of the Mpox virus. He highlighted the collaborative work between the Government of Sierra Leone, the World Health Organization (WHO), GAVI, the African CDC, and private institutions in responding to the virus.
“The Government of President Julius Maada Bio is committed to curbing the spread of Mpox,” said Dr. Demby. “Since the onset of the outbreak, we have reduced active cases from over 2,000 to just over 80 in holding centers across the country. This is a result of strong government action and the support of our partners.”
Dr. Demby also lauded the government’s financial support in the fight against Mpox, revealing that President Bio’s administration had invested a significant $1.7 million in the effort, including essential equipment for the response teams.
A representative from UNICEF commended Sierra Leone’s efforts in combating Mpox, highlighting the country’s strong response and the importance of not letting up. The WHO, she said, is impressed with the country’s actions so far but urged continued vigilance.
The Senior Permanent Secretary at MoH, Andrew L. Sorie, emphasized that the Ministry has put in place strategic Mpox response mechanisms across the country. He noted that the panel discussion was essential for mapping out ways to prevent future outbreaks and to share the public’s feedback on the current situation.
The panel featured the Minister of Health, SLAJ President Alhaji Manika Kamara, a nurse, a Mpox survivor, and moderated by BBC’s Umaru Fofanah. Panelists shared their personal experiences and insights on tackling the Mpox virus.
Prof. Foday Sahr praised the country’s financial commitment to the epidemic response, saying that Sierra Leone’s efforts are commendable given its resources.
Ibrahim, a Mpox survivor, described the virus as “deadly” but noted that timely intervention significantly increases survival chances, with reports suggesting up to 95-98% survival with early treatment.
Alhaji Manika Kamara, President of SLAJ, reiterated the media’s role in disseminating accurate information to the public. He called for stronger collaboration between the government and media practitioners to combat misinformation.
The Nurse on the panel reassured the public that most Mpox cases are treatable and not as deadly as often perceived. She emphasized that health facilities remain open and accessible to all patients.
Minister Demby emphasized the importance of community involvement in reporting Mpox cases early and providing strategic information to help combat the virus. He encouraged all Sierra Leoneans to support the government’s efforts by ensuring that suspected cases are reported and treated swiftly.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment from the media and other stakeholders to continue working together in the fight against Mpox and other potential epidemics.