Africa CDC approves Morocco’s homegrown Mpox test

MOROCCO—The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has approved Morocco’s first locally manufactured Real-Time PCR test for mpox. 

This approval, granted through Africa CDC’s Diagnostic Advisory Committee (DAC), highlights the test’s proven reliability and effectiveness, marking a step forward for Morocco’s role in global health efforts.

This achievement aligns with the African Union’s broader goal of strengthening the continent’s self-sufficiency in public health.

By bolstering local manufacturing of diagnostic tools, Africa aims to improve its capacity to respond swiftly to health threats, such as disease outbreaks.

Morocco’s success in developing and validating this test reinforces the importance of homegrown solutions in Africa’s health systems.

The Africa CDC, through its continental plan, has been actively supporting member states with essential resources and training to combat mpox. 

This includes the distribution of PCR and genome sequencing test kits, as well as GeneXpert cartridges. 

Additionally, Africa CDC has provided training on specimen collection, transportation, biosafety, biosecurity, and molecular testing for mpox, further enhancing the continent’s preparedness.

In collaboration with AUDA-NEPAD, Africa CDC established the DAC to oversee the selection, evaluation, and validation of diagnostic technologies across Africa. 

This body has been instrumental in reviewing and recommending specific RT-PCR tests for mpox, ensuring that only the most reliable options are used in national testing strategies.

 As part of its work, the DAC has published two editions of a recommended list of RT-PCR tests for mpox, each one following a rigorous review process based on the World Health Organization’s (WHO) standards.

The latest edition of the recommended list, published on November 12, 2024, includes the UM6P-MAScIR MPOX qPCR 1.0 PCR test, manufactured by Moldiag in Morocco.

 After thorough evaluation, the DAC confirmed that the test met all critical criteria, a testament to the quality and potential of locally produced diagnostics, marking a significant achievement in the global response to mpox.

Commenting on the approval, Moldiag’s CEO, Ms. Nawal Chraibi, expressed pride in the company’s contribution to Africa’s health resilience. 

She emphasized the importance of strengthening local production to enhance the continent’s ability to respond quickly to public health challenges, noting that aligning with Africa CDC’s vision for a self-sufficient and health-secure Africa is a key goal.

Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director General of Africa CDC, also praised the approval, highlighting that local manufacturing of medical countermeasures is essential for Africa’s health security. 

He pointed out that Morocco’s PCR test, which passed stringent evaluation criteria, shows that quality diagnostics can be developed and used locally, even during health emergencies.

Dr. Kaseya congratulated Morocco for this achievement and encouraged other African nations to consider adopting this testing solution as they continue their efforts to fight the mpox outbreak.

This development is a crucial step forward in Africa’s push for self-reliance in health technologies, and it is expected to inspire local manufacturers to produce more diagnostic tools and epidemic-related products. 

Africa CDC remains committed to collaborating with manufacturers and stakeholders to ensure the availability of necessary medical products for the continent’s health security. 

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.