The Government of the United Arab Emirates has donated 20,000 doses of the Mpox vaccine to Sierra Leone, reinforcing its support for the country’s ongoing response to the outbreak. The vaccines are scheduled to arrive at Freetown International Airport on Sunday, 1 June 2025.
Reacting to the generous donation, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to the UAE, Rashid Sesay, stated:
“On behalf of His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio and the people of Sierra Leone, I extend my deepest gratitude to our UAE friends for this kind and timely assistance. This move reinforces the strength of the bilateral and friendly relationship between our two countries.”
The UAE has been a consistent partner in Sierra Leone’s health and humanitarian efforts. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Gulf state donated seven metric tonnes of medical supplies. In 2021, following the devastating Wellington fire incident, the UAE provided sixteen metric tonnes of urgent medical items — the largest foreign assistance at the time which played a crucial role in aiding the recovery of the victims.
In response to the Mpox outbreak, Sierra Leone’s health authorities recently issued a series of preventive guidelines, including frequent handwashing and minimizing overcrowding, particularly in public spaces. According to official figures, the country has recorded 3,185 confirmed cases and 15 deaths to date.
The donation of Mpox vaccines is expected to significantly bolster the country’s containment and prevention efforts.