The research paper “The cost of the re-emergence of monkeypox: An overview of health financing in Africa,” authored by Taiwo Oluwaseun Sokunbi and Elijah Orimisan Akinbi, examines the financial burden of the recent monkeypox (mpox) outbreaks on Africa’s healthcare systems. Published in Health Policy OPEN (Volume 7, 2024), the paper explores the challenges posed by the resurgence of mpox in the region, particularly in the wake of its reclassification as a public health emergency of international concern by the World Health Organization in 2024.
This comprehensive analysis highlights the interplay between health financing policies and the continent’s ability to respond effectively to epidemics. It reviews the sources of health financing, such as government allocations, donor contributions, and out-of-pocket expenditures, against the backdrop of Africa’s disproportionate disease burden and resource constraints. The authors discuss the critical gaps in vaccination accessibility, healthcare infrastructure, and funding mechanisms exacerbated by the high costs of combating mpox, including hospitalizations and preventive measures.
The study underscores the urgent need for sustainable health financing reforms, advocating for enhanced domestic investment and reduced dependency on external donors to improve resilience against future health emergencies. The authors provide actionable recommendations aimed at alleviating the financial strain on African households and strengthening the region’s healthcare systems.