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The Government of Sierra Leone, through the National Public Health Agency, has officially launched the National Network of Persons Recovered from Mpox, under the theme “Building a Resilient and Empowered Network of Mpox Survivors.”
The engagement was held from 2nd to 3rd October 2025 at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown.
The unveiling was led by Dr. Mohamed Alex Vandi, Deputy Executive Director of the National Public Health Agency. During the launch, he commended the courage and commitment of survivors stepping into public health leadership.
Also, Rachael A. Kuyembeh, Public Information Officer for the Mpox Response and Public Relations Coordinator of NPHA. Stated that “Resilience is not just about surviving. It’s about rising with purpose. This network affirms that those who have walked through fire now carry the light to guide others.”
The objectives of the program were presented by Mr. Harold Thomas, RCCE Lead for the Government of Sierra Leone. He emphasized that the Network aims to create a unified platform for survivor engagement and advocacy, strengthen community-based risk communication and health promotion, integrate survivor perspectives into national mental health and outbreak preparedness strategies, and foster dignity, inclusion, and resilience in Sierra Leone’s public health system. Mr. Thomas noted.
“Survivors are not just beneficiaries of care. They are agents of change. Their stories, strength, and leadership will shape how we respond to future outbreaks with empathy, speed, and community trust.” He Explained.
Furthermore, the event featured a panel discussion on “Survivor Engagement in Health Systems Strengthening and the Ongoing Mpox Response.”
The discussion explored how survivors can serve as trusted messengers, bridge gaps between communities and health systems, and contribute to more compassionate, effective outbreak responses. Topics included mental health integration, peer support networks, and the role of survivor-led storytelling in reducing stigma.
Additionally, at the end of the two-day program marked the launch of a new survivor-led charity, “The Way Forward.” This organization will serve as a hub for survivor empowerment, offering psychosocial support, community outreach, and advocacy training. It aims to ensure that no survivor walks alone and that recovery becomes a pathway to leadership, not just survival.
