The initiative aims to improve pandemic, epidemic, preparedness and response in Africa.
The EU, its member states and European financial institutions have announced a contribution of more than 750 million euros to the newly launched African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator (AVMA), part of the EU’s Global Gateway strategy.
The AVMA aims to buy more than 800 million doses of vaccines produced in Africa over the next decade, raising more than 1 billion euros for manufacturers to help offset high upfront costs and ensure demand.
Developed by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance and the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the AVMA has the potential to improve pandemic, outbreak, preparedness and response in Africa and support global health security.
It aims to increase demand predictability for African-made vaccines, support the growth of the manufacturing base and achieve the goal of producing most of the vaccines needed by African countries on the continent, as well as contribute to the diversification of global vaccine suppliers with the goal of having at least four African vaccine manufacturers sustainably enter the market.
Additionally, the initiative will promote equitable access to essential medical products, technologies and primary health care services across several areas, including job creation, diversification of global value chains and innovation.
In line with existing efforts on the production of and access to vaccines, medicines and medical technologies in Africa, Team Europe will contribute €2 billion to plans to promote equitable access to quality, safe, effective and affordable medical products, in close collaboration with African and international partners.
The donation will help create a favorable environment for the industry by training skilled workers in the sector, strengthening the regulatory environment, and supporting research and technology transfer in Africa.
Jutta Urpilanen, European Commissioner for International Partnerships, said: “The AVMA is another step towards achieving Africa’s ambition to produce 60% of vaccines domestically.
“With this important Team Europe investment, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting Africa’s health self-reliance and global preparedness against future health threats.”
