Ireland contributes US$1.08M to Uganda’s Sudan Virus Disease response

UGANDA—Ireland’s Minister for International Development and Diaspora, Neale Richmond, has announced a €1 million (US$1.08 million) contribution to support the World Health Organization’s (WHO) efforts in addressing the ongoing outbreak of Sudan virus disease (SVD) in Uganda.

This funding is part of the UN Uganda Emergency Appeal and aims to bolster surveillance, infection prevention, control measures, and risk communication within affected communities.

The initiative also seeks to strengthen Uganda’s national response capacity and expedite the containment of the outbreak.

The announcement coincides with a significant milestone in Uganda’s fight against SVD: the launch of the first-ever clinical efficacy trial for a vaccine targeting the Sudan species of Ebola virus.

This trial, conducted by Uganda’s Ministry of Health in collaboration with WHO and other global partners, marks a proactive step toward developing effective prevention tools against this deadly virus.

Minister Richmond praised the WHO and the Ugandan government for their rapid response to the outbreak and emphasised Ireland’s dedication to supporting efforts to control, contain, and ultimately eradicate the epidemic.

 Ambassador Kevin Colgan further emphasised Ireland’s role as a key partner in the WHO’s initiatives to combat diseases globally, including innovative vaccine trials and therapeutic development for SVD.

As of early March 2025, Uganda faces a multi-district outbreak with 12 confirmed cases, 10 recoveries, two deaths, and numerous contacts under monitoring across six districts.

 Sporadic cases have emerged in urban areas such as Kampala and Mbale. WHO works closely with Uganda’s Ministry of Health to manage the situation effectively.

The organization has deployed resources to treatment centers and initiated contact tracing efforts to limit further transmission.

Dr. Kasonde Mwinga, WHO Representative to Uganda, expressed gratitude for Ireland’s flexible funding contribution, which will address urgent needs in the response.

He assured that these funds would be utilized efficiently to support critical interventions to end the outbreak.

 The Sudan virus disease poses significant public health risks due to its high fatality rate and lack of licensed vaccines or therapeutics.

With international support and ongoing research efforts, Uganda remains steadfast in its mission to overcome this challenge.

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