WHO: Why it’s the right time for Africa to start thinking about vaccine security

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of vaccine security for Africa, a continent that has historically depended on external sources for critical supplies. Dr. Richard Mihigo, Coordinator for Vaccines Development at the World Health Organisation (WHO), emphasized the need for Africa to prioritize vaccine security and invest in local manufacturing capabilities to ensure timely access to vaccines. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Dr. Mihigo discussed the significance of African countries taking the initiative to establish vaccine manufacturing on the continent in order to address the current challenges in supply chain logistics and distribution. A key theme that emerged from the interview was the urgency for Africa to begin thinking about vaccine security in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Mihigo stressed that Africa's heavy reliance on external sources for vaccines has hindered timely access to vaccinations, leaving many countries in the region lagging behind. The recent discussions led by the African Union on COVID-19 vaccine manufacturing in Africa have set the stage for a concerted effort towards enhancing vaccine security on the continent. Key Points: - The Need for Local Manufacturing: Dr. Mihigo highlighted the importance of investing in local manufacturing capabilities for vaccines and other essential medical supplies. By building infrastructure, enhancing scientific research and development, and securing financial support, Africa can reduce its dependency on external sources and ensure timely access to life-saving vaccines. - Lessons from History: Drawing parallels with the HIV pandemic in the late 80s and early 90s, Dr. Mihigo emphasized the need for Africa to learn from past experiences and prioritize the development of local manufacturing capacities. By leveraging technology transfer partnerships and promoting research and development within the continent, African countries can enhance their self-sufficiency in producing essential medicines and vaccines. - Sustainable Solutions: Dr. Mihigo emphasized the importance of long-term sustainability in addressing vaccine security in Africa. By fostering local innovation, research, and development, African institutions can generate their own breakthrough products and reduce dependency on external licenses and patents. This holistic approach aims to create a self-sustaining ecosystem for vaccine production and ensure continuous access to essential healthcare products. In light of the global challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Mihigo called for collaborative efforts from African governments, financial institutions, and global partners to drive the continent towards self-reliance in vaccine security. By harnessing local talent, resources, and expertise, Africa can navigate the complexities of vaccine distribution and manufacturing, leading to a more resilient healthcare system in the face of future health crises.