Zambia inks vaccine manufacturing deal with International Vaccine Institute

Zambia has formalised a strategic partnership with the International Vaccine Institute (IVI) to bolster domestic vaccine manufacturing capacity, the Zambia National Public Health Institute (ZNPHI) announced on Friday.

The memorandum of understanding aims to create a robust vaccine production ecosystem in Zambia, supporting national needs and enabling regional distribution across Africa. ZNPHI Director-General Roma Chilengi called the deal “a strategic leap forward,” highlighting its foundational role in reshaping the continent’s reliance on imported vaccines.

“This initiative is not merely technical; it is foundational to create an enabling environment for producing a wide array of vaccines tailored to national and continental health needs. This is a first for Zambia, and it sets us apart as a pioneer in Africa’s health manufacturing landscape,” Chilengi stated.

The move comes as Zambia pushes to position itself as a regional health manufacturing leader. Chilengi underscored the importance of self-sufficiency in vaccine supply chains, particularly in light of lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic.

World Health Organization (WHO) Country Representative Clement Peter Lasuba described the agreement as a turning point for Africa’s health agenda. He stressed the need to prepare communities for the transition to locally produced vaccines and reaffirmed WHO support for Zambia’s ambitions.

“This partnership is not just a contract; it is a commitment to a healthier, more self-reliant Africa. Zambia will take the lead in local vaccine production, and we hope other countries will follow to improve the well-being of people across the region,” Lasuba said.

The partnership is expected to open pathways for innovation, improve access to life-saving immunisations, and strengthen regional health resilience in the years to come.

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