The Economic Impact of Mpox on Central African Economies

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, has transitioned from a relatively obscure disease to a significant public health issue, causing substantial economic disruptions in Central Africa.

This outbreak, initially treated with mild concern, has begun to exert considerable pressure on the region’s economies, particularly in trade, healthcare costs, and potential long-term impacts.

 Markets Stalled

In Central Africa, trade is the heartbeat of local economies. Cities like Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Yaoundé in Cameroon, and Libreville in Gabon are known for their bustling markets, where goods ranging from agricultural products to artisanal crafts are traded daily. However, the Mpox outbreak has caused a sharp decline in market activities.

In Kinshasa, for instance, traders have reported a noticeable drop in the number of customers. This decline is due not only to people falling ill but also to widespread fear of contracting the disease. Similar reports have emerged from Douala in Cameroon, where cross-border trade with neighboring countries has slowed significantly as borders tighten in response to the outbreak. This has led to increased prices for essential goods, hitting the most vulnerable communities hardest.

A Strain on Resources

Healthcare systems in Central Africa were already under pressure from diseases such as malaria, HIV, and tuberculosis. The arrival of Mpox has exacerbated these challenges. Countries like the DRC, Central African Republic (CAR), and Congo-Brazzaville have had to allocate additional resources to manage the outbreak. This includes not only purchasing medicines but also setting up isolation units, training healthcare workers, and conducting public awareness campaigns.

In the DRC, the government has had to divert funds from other critical areas, including education and infrastructure development, to meet the rising healthcare costs associated with Mpox. This reallocation of resources has left other sectors underfunded, creating a ripple effect across the economy. In smaller countries like CAR, where the healthcare infrastructure is already limited, the strain has been particularly severe, leading to overcrowded hospitals and delays in treatment for other medical conditions.

Economic Stability at Risk

The long-term economic impacts of Mpox on Central African countries could be profound. As the disease continues to spread, it is likely to reduce workforce productivity. In countries like Gabon and Congo-Brazzaville, where agriculture plays a significant role in the economy, any reduction in labor availability could lead to decreased agricultural output. This, in turn, could result in food shortages and higher prices, further exacerbating poverty levels.

Moreover, the uncertainty surrounding the outbreak may deter both domestic and foreign investment in the region. Investors generally shy away from regions perceived as high-risk, and an ongoing health crisis only amplifies this perception. This could lead to a slowdown in economic growth in affected countries, making it more difficult to improve living standards and reduce poverty.