The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has commended the United States government for its decisive action to lift the Level 3 (reconsider non-essential travel) warning for travellers to Rwanda where the Marburg virus outbreak was announced on September 27.
According to an Africa CDC spokesperson, the travel ban restricted movement of American citizens to Rwanda. It also dealt a significant economic blow to the nation as it marshalled resources to confront the complex and high-risk outbreak.
“This decision underscores Rwanda’s remarkable achievements in exceptional leadership and innovative management in the containment of the Marburg outbreak. It affirms the nation’s steadfast commitment to safeguarding public health and restoring confidence in Africa and the world,” said Africa CDC in a statement.
After Rwanda announced the Marburg outbreak, it was identified as a zoonotic disease from bats. Recognising the grave threat posed by the virus, with a potential fatality rate exceeding 80% if unchecked, the Africa CDC mobilised immediately. Within 24 hours of the announcement, over 30 public health experts and critical resources were deployed to support Rwanda’s response efforts.
Africa CDC’s contributions were instrumental in Rwanda’s success including decentralising an effective and efficient laboratory network, enhancing surveillance systems, strengthening community engagement strategies and bolstering the country’s capacity to deliver a robust and coordinated response.
The Director General of Africa CDC, Dr Jean Kesaya, set an example by prioritising Africa’s urgent health crises (Mpox, Marburg and others) over international engagements and cancelling participation in high-profile events such as the World Health, G20 and COP29 summits, among others.
Kesaya instead focused on direct support for responses to Mpox and Marburg. He visited Rwanda multiple times to work closely with Rwandan President Paul Kagame, Minister of Health Dr Sabin Nsanzimana and other key stakeholders.
“Africa CDC’s unwavering commitment was instrumental in ensuring that the Marburg outbreak remained contained within Rwanda’s borders, preventing further regional or international spread,” said Nsanzimana.
As per World Health Organization guidelines, Africa CDC will continue to support Rwanda in monitoring and preparing for the official declaration of the end of the Marburg outbreak – expected on December 21 after 42 days without new confirmed cases since October 30.
