Kenya has renewed its push to see more vaccines made within Africa, as the country takes a leading role in talks on strengthening health systems across the continent.
Speaking during the World Health Summit Regional Meeting held at the United Nations Office at Nairobi, Principal Secretary for Medical Services Ouma Oluga said local vaccine production is key to securing Africa’s health future.
The meeting brought together leaders from governments, health organisations and industry players to discuss how Africa can move from promises to real action in producing its own vaccines.
In particular, Dr Oluga emphasized that Africa should now prioritize actions aimed at supporting vaccine production, such as stimulating demand and making investments in this sphere.
It was stressed that there are many commitments made, yet what the region needs right now is to take actions that would lead to sustainable vaccine manufacturing.
One part of the discussion involved considering measures aimed at coordinating vaccine purchases by various countries locally as a way of providing confidence to producers and promoting further development of the sphere.
Furthermore, there was a discussion regarding regulations and measures designed to facilitate cross-border usage of vaccines made in one state and the financial issues in this sphere.
The conversation took place as part of efforts initiated after an agreement made among African countries led by President William Ruto on fostering vaccine production on the continent.
The participants emphasized that it is important now to make sure that coordination between countries is ensured along with investing in innovations and creating a supportive market environment for vaccine manufacturing.
The outcomes of the discussion will form the basis for further actions that need to be taken before a special summit organized by the African Union dedicated on health product manufacturing.
Health experts and leaders from different organisations, including the World Bank and regional health bodies, attended the meeting.
