Daijiworld Media Network - Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa, Feb 1: The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has sounded the alarm on the escalating health crises across the continent, warning that these challenges could undo decades of progress in Africa’s health security. In a statement issued on Friday, the Africa CDC highlighted a surge in health emergencies, calling for immediate and coordinated action from African nations and international partners.

The agency expressed concern over the shifting global landscape, with wealthy nations prioritizing domestic needs and reducing development assistance, including a recent 90-day pause in US foreign aid. Africa CDC projections suggest that without swift intervention, financial constraints could reverse health gains, potentially leading to an estimated 2 to 4 million additional deaths annually from preventable diseases, returning morbidity and mortality rates to early 2000s levels.

The CDC also stressed that conflicts and insecurities across various regions are exacerbating the continent’s health challenges, further complicating the fight against disease outbreaks. Africa CDC Director-General Jean Kaseya emphasized the urgency of collective efforts to combat multiple outbreaks currently affecting the continent, including the Marburg virus in Tanzania and the resurgence of Ebola in Uganda.

The Marburg virus, which emerged in Tanzania on January 20, has so far caused 10 cases and 10 deaths, with a 100% case fatality rate. Additionally, Africa is battling the ongoing mpox outbreak, which has affected 21 countries and has seen more than 9,950 cases and 85 deaths in 2025 alone.

Africa CDC is calling for innovative financing mechanisms and increased domestic investment in public health to bolster the continent's preparedness and response capabilities, urging African leaders to take immediate action to prevent further health setbacks.