Kenya and the International Vaccine Institute (IVI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Afya House, marking a significant step towards increasing vaccine production capacities. The cooperation intends to support the country’s attempts to achieve vaccine self-sufficiency while also addressing broader public health issues in Africa.
During the ceremony, Cabinet Secretary for Health Dr. Deborah M. Barasa emphasised the importance of this collaboration in realising Africa CDC’s objective of producing 60% of the continent’s vaccines locally by 2040. “This MoU symbolises our shared commitment to building a robust vaccine ecosystem that ensures equitable access for all while enhancing health security in Kenya and beyond,” says Dr Barasa.
Kenya has been chosen to host the IVI Country Office and the Advancing Vaccine End-to-End Capabilities (AVEC) Project Office, a significant step forward in the country’s leadership in health innovation and vaccine production throughout the continent.
IVI Director General Dr. Jerome Kim praised Kenya’s proactive approach, stating that “this partnership represents a bold step forward in advancing global health security through innovative and sustainable vaccine solutions.”
The partnership also builds on Kenya’s vaccine research accomplishments, with institutions such as the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) and the Kenya BioVax Institute playing significant roles in clinical trials, disease surveillance and workforce development.
The meeting was attended by the Ministry of Health’s Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Mr. Harry Kimtai; Director General for Health, Dr. Patrick Amoth; Kenya BioVax CEO, Dr. Michael Lusiola and KEMRI Ag DG, Prof. Elijah Songok. This alliance is projected to strengthen Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) strategy by improving vaccination access, encouraging innovation and ensuring resilience in the face of future health emergencies.