Morocco produces Africa's first mpox test kits

Morocco has made history as the first African country to produce mpox test kits, thanks to Moldiag, a biotechnology startup based in Tamesna. This milestone follows years of struggles by African nations to secure sufficient medical supplies during health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Moldiag’s founder, Abdeladim Moumem, highlighted the affordability of the tests, priced under $5, as a game-changer for addressing shortages across the continent. “Our aim is to provide cost-effective solutions for Africa,” Moumem stated.

The Moroccan-manufactured tests have been approved by the Africa CDC, with initial orders flowing in from outbreak hotspots like the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and Burundi. While Morocco has reported only three cases of mpox, most tests will be exported to countries experiencing significant outbreaks.

Health experts stress the importance of testing for accurate diagnosis and containment of the virus, especially in regions lacking laboratory infrastructure. Moldiag’s initiative is a significant step toward reducing Africa’s dependency on imported medical supplies, ensuring a faster response to public health emergencies.

The company, an offshoot of Morocco’s Foundation for Advanced Science, Innovation and Research (MASCIR), has previously developed genetic tests for COVID-19 and tuberculosis, positioning itself as a key player in Africa’s medical biotechnology sector.