The United Arab Emirates has donated 20,000 doses of the Mpox vaccine to Sierra Leone as part of efforts to support the West African nation’s ongoing fight against the viral disease. The consignment is expected to arrive at Freetown International Airport on Sunday, June 1, 2025.
Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to the UAE, Rashid Sesay, praised the donation as a demonstration of true friendship and timely intervention.
“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,” Ambassador Sesay said. “This move reinforces the strength of the bilateral relationship between our two countries.”
The UAE has consistently provided humanitarian support to Sierra Leone in times of crisis. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Gulf nation supplied seven metric tonnes of medical equipment to aid the country’s response. Following the deadly Wellington fire disaster in 2021, the UAE also donated sixteen metric tonnes of urgent medical supplies — the largest foreign aid contribution to victims of that tragedy.
As of this month, Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Health has recorded 3,185 confirmed cases of Mpox, including 15 fatalities. In response, health authorities have issued preventive guidelines urging the public to regularly wash hands and avoid overcrowding in public spaces.
The donated vaccines are expected to bolster Sierra Leone’s vaccination drive and enhance national containment efforts. Health officials say the support will be crucial in reducing transmission and protecting vulnerable communities.
The latest gesture from the UAE further cements the strong diplomatic ties between the two countries, and highlights the global importance of collaborative health responses in tackling emerging infectious diseases.
By Hawa Rogers
