Kenya is facing an imminent vaccine shortage that could impact millions of children if the government fails to meet its financial obligations under the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI) agreement.
Stakeholders, including the Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) and the Health NGO Network (HENNET), have raised concerns over the delayed payment of Ksh 1.2 billion, which was due by March 30, 2025.The funding delay threatens to disrupt immunization programs across the country, with a potential vaccine stock-out expected by June this year. This could reverse the progress Kenya has made in child health through improved immunization coverage.
KEWOPA, HENNET, and other health advocates are now calling on the Ministry of Health and the National Treasury to take urgent action to prevent a public health crisis.Speaking during an awareness forum, KEWOPA reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring vaccine equity and accessibility for all children in Kenya.
The organization urged the government to prioritize vaccine funding in the upcoming 2025/26 budget cycle to avoid disruptions in the immunization program.Kenya, which has been co-financing vaccines with GAVI, is expected to fully transition to independent vaccine financing by 2029, following its classification as a lower-middle-income economy.
However, the failure to meet its current commitments raises concerns about the sustainability of the country’s immunization programs in the future.
With the June 30, 2025, deadline fast approaching, stakeholders are pressuring the government to fulfill its obligations to ensure continuous vaccine supply and safeguard the health of millions of children.
The urgency of the matter underscores the critical role of timely government financing in maintaining Kenya’s immunization gains and protecting vulnerable populations from preventable diseases