Long-distance drivers boycott Mpox program until safety assured

Long-distance drivers have protested against what they term as coercion in the ongoing Mpox vaccination campaign, saying their participation must remain voluntary.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Long Distance Drivers and Conductors Association (LoDDCA) accused health authorities of sidelining them in decision-making and treating them as test subjects for new health interventions.

The body said drivers were concerned about being unfairly targeted despite acknowledging the seriousness of the emerging health threat.

“We recognise that Mpox is an emerging health threat with potentially serious outcomes and appreciate the ongoing efforts by government, health partners, and stakeholders to raise awareness on prevention and care,” LoDDCA said.

The Association listed three key grievances: being excluded from decision-making, negative experiences in past vaccination drives that left drivers anxious due to side effects and lack of follow-up, and a perception that mobile populations such as drivers are singled out for trials of new interventions.

“There is growing scepticism among this community due to several factors, including a lack of direct engagement and information. Many drivers feel excluded from decision-making processes and have not been adequately educated on what the vaccine is, its contents and its safety,” LoDDCA said.

The group said trust in health programs had been eroded by past experiences and pointed out that drivers feel targeted unfairly.

“There is a strong feeling that mobile populations, especially drivers, are unfairly targeted for new health interventions without prior consultation,” it added.

LoDDCA also cited reports from Uganda’s Tororo District, where Kenyan drivers and their colleagues were allegedly compelled to take the vaccine while crossing borders.

“We consider any form of coercion, particularly at border points, a violation of the right to informed consent and a source of fear and mistrust among our members,” it said.

Despite expressing support for public health initiatives, the Association declared that its members would not participate in the program until their concerns were addressed.

“Our members have clearly indicated and firmly stated that they will not participate in the Mpox vaccination program until these concerns are fully addressed and there is clear, evidence-based assurance of the vaccine’s safety and efficacy,” the statement read.

LoDDCA called on the Ministry of Health, regional authorities, and other stakeholders to directly engage with drivers, provide transparent information about the vaccine, and uphold voluntary participation.

“LoDDCA reiterates that health interventions are most effective when communities are informed, respected, and involved in the process. We remain open to dialogue and collaboration to ensure the safety and well-being of our members while supporting regional and national health priorities,” it said.