In a statement released on November 23, 2024, Africa CDC highlighted that the decision reflects Rwanda's "remarkable achievements in exceptional leadership and innovative management" in containing the outbreak.
The statement added, 'It affirms the nation's steadfast commitment to safeguarding public health and restoring confidence in Africa and the World.'
Rwanda initially declared the Marburg outbreak on September 27, 2024, identifying it as a zoonotic disease originating from bats.
Recognizing the virus's severe threat, with a potential fatality rate of over 80% if left unchecked, Africa CDC acted swiftly. Within 24 hours of the declaration, it deployed over 30 public health experts and critical resources to aid Rwanda's response.
Africa CDC's support proved pivotal, enhancing laboratory networks, surveillance systems, community engagement strategies, and the country's overall capacity to mount a robust and coordinated response.
Demonstrating hands-on leadership, Africa CDC's Director General prioritized Africa's urgent health crises, including Marburg and Mpox, over international engagements.
The Director General canceled attendance at high-profile events like the World Health Summit, G20, and COP29 to focus on direct support. This included multiple visits to Rwanda to work closely with relevant officials and other stakeholders.
On November 15, the Ministry of Health (MoH), highlighted that 14 days had passed since the last new case was detected in the country, and it had been eight days since the final patient was discharged from the hospital.
Subsequently, the Ministry of Health, on November 16, announced the end of the monitoring period for individuals who had contact with Marburg virus cases.
Despite this milestone, authorities stressed that preventive measures remain active, with recovered patients still under medical observation to ensure public safety.
Acknowledging Rwanda's progress, Africa CDC's Director General formally appealed to the U.S. government to reassess the travel advisory.
A letter addressed to the U.S. Secretary of Health and the CDC Director was submitted via the U.S. Ambassador to the African Union on November 18, 2024. The appeal emphasized Rwanda's exemplary outbreak management and its containment success.
According to WHO protocols, Africa CDC will continue supporting Rwanda as it monitors for the official end of the outbreak, expected on December 12, 2024, following 42 days without new confirmed cases since October 30, 2024.
'Africa CDC extends its gratitude to African Heads of State, governments, and communities for their unwavering trust and support,' the statement continued, emphasizing the critical role of global solidarity and cooperation. It also discouraged the use of travel bans as a primary response to health crises, highlighting the importance of the U.S. as a key partner in Africa's health sector.
Africa CDC reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening partnerships with the U.S. and global stakeholders to enhance Africa's health systems for future outbreak responses.
'Together, we will continue building a resilient and self-reliant Africa, safeguarding the health of 1.4 billion Africans while contributing to global health security,' the statement concluded.
Théophile Niyitegeka
