Africa CDC endorses first locally made Mpox PCR test from Morocco

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has endorsed the first-ever locally manufactured real-time PCR test for mpox, developed in Morocco.

This significant development, announced in a statement on Tuesday, highlights the growing capabilities of African nations in addressing health threats through locally produced medical technology.

The endorsement of the test underscores its reliability and effectiveness, marking a crucial step towards enhancing Morocco’s role in global health initiatives.

The PCR test, developed by Moroccan company Moldiag, a leader in molecular diagnostic tests, is designed to meet both national and continental needs in the fight against mpox.

Africa CDC emphasized that this move aligns with the African Union’s (AU) broader efforts to strengthen self-sufficiency within Africa’s public health systems.

This will, in turn, improve the continent’s preparedness and response to health threats, including infectious disease outbreaks.

The endorsement also reflects ongoing efforts to combat the current mpox outbreak.

As part of its continent-wide response, Africa CDC has procured and distributed PCR kits and genomic sequencing kits to AU member states.

These efforts are pivotal in improving surveillance and rapid detection of mpox across the continent.

In its third edition of recommended products, the Africa CDC included the PCR detection kit produced by Moldiag, signaling a crucial milestone in advancing Africa’s capacity for diagnostics and medical innovation.

The test is tailored to meet the specific health needs of Morocco and the wider African continent.

This move is seen as a vital step toward empowering African nations to take greater control over their health responses and reduce reliance on external sources for critical medical supplies.

With mpox still a major concern, the development of local testing capacity is expected to play a significant role in containing the disease and improving health outcomes across the continent.