Submission ID 117600
| Issue/Objective | The COVID-19 pandemic and recurrent disease outbreaks such as Ebola have exposed Africa's dependence on external vaccine supplies, highlighting critical gaps in governance, financing, and trust in global health systems. Despite commitments under the African Union's Agenda 2063, African governments continue to underfund health systems, leaving them vulnerable to supply chain disruptions and external market fluctuations. This study explores local vaccine manufacturing as a sustainable solution to enhance public health financing, foster regional collaboration, and build trust in national health governance. |
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| Methodology/Approach | A scoping review of literature on vaccine manufacturing in Africa was conducted, alongside an economic analysis of cost-saving potential and investment trends. Ownership models, policy frameworks, and key barriers to vaccine production were analyzed to assess governance and financing gaps. |
| Results | As of December 2022, Africa had 10 vaccine manufacturers in operation, with 17 additional companies in development. Ownership structures varied: 44% private, 19% state-owned, 15% non-profits, and 22% public-private partnerships. The African Union estimates that expanding local vaccine production could contribute $4 million to $6 billion to GDP and create thousands of direct and indirect jobs by 2040. However, barriers such as limited domestic funding, regulatory challenges, and restricted technology transfer agreements continue to hinder progress. |
| Discussion/Conclusion | Local vaccine manufacturing is a game changer for strengthening governance, health financing, and regional collaboration. It reduces reliance on external funding, enhances health security, and fosters public trust in national health systems. However, high capital costs, complex regulatory pathways, and shortages of skilled labor remain significant obstacles. To address these, African governments must increase domestic investment, harmonize regulatory standards, and strengthen technology transfer agreements. Enhanced collaboration between governments, development partners, and private sector stakeholders is essential for long-term sustainability. By prioritizing local vaccine production, Africa can improve health sovereignty, economic resilience, and equitable access to vaccines, ensuring a stronger and more self-reliant global health system. |
| Presenters and affiliations | Diana Tibesigwa AIDS Healthcare Foundation Victor Popoola AIDS Healthcare Foundation |
