$1.2 Billion Initiative to Boost Vaccine Production in Africa Announced at Paris Summit

Jun 20, 2024, 12:59 PM

World leaders have announced a significant initiative to bolster vaccine production in Africa, highlighting the need for global cooperation in addressing health disparities exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. At a Paris summit, French President Emmanuel Macron, alongside several African leaders, unveiled a $1.2 billion project aimed at accelerating the rollout of vaccines across the continent. This initiative includes the launch of the African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator (AVMA), supported by the World Bank Group and Gavi, which aims to enhance vaccine sovereignty and innovation in Africa. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also expressed its commitment to supporting the African Union's target of producing 60% of the continent's vaccines locally. Additionally, Gavi announced plans to expand global access to human rabies vaccines, targeting over 50 countries. The initiative was launched at Gavi's Global Forum for Vaccine Sovereignty & Innovation, which also aims to create a sustainable vaccine ecosystem in Africa. The project is part of a broader $1 billion effort to improve vaccine access.