Expanding local vaccine production in South Africa

Context

The COVID-19 pandemic has shown just how dependent Africa is on vaccine imports. Currently, just one per cent of the vaccines needed in Africa are produced there. Local production is essential to reduce this dependence. The overall conditions in South Africa are favourable for this: there is an excellent infrastructure, a well-trained workforce and a high level of research expertise.

Beyond this, South Africa’s Government requires continued support to enable it to prevent pandemics and integrate adult immunisation programmes into primary health care. The aim is to ensure that everyone in South Africa has easy access to the vaccinations they need.

Objective

Access to high-quality vaccines is improved for all population groups in South Africa.

Approach

The project is working with the South African Department of Health to incorporate immunisations for adults into primary health care and generate health data. This will enable the country to improve its response to pandemics and build preparedness capabilities, making it better equipped to tackle future health emergencies.

The project plans to run training courses with companies, universities and public research institutes in order to generate the expertise to develop and produce vaccines in South Africa. The aim is to boost the expertise, skills and networks of all those involved from the spheres of business, science, administration and politics – regionally, nationally and internationally. This will not only create more jobs, but will also improve market access for vaccines that are produced in South Africa.

At the same time, the project promotes the state regulation required for producing vaccines. This will guarantee the approval of high-quality health products – for the good of the South African population and the whole region.

Last update: March 2024