The European Union (EU) has launched a €32 million initiative to enhance vaccine production in Ghana, aiming to strengthen the healthcare system and improve access to quality health products. This investment will support local manufacturing and reduce reliance on imported vaccines.
The EU has launched a €32 million initiative to enhance vaccine production in Ghana, announced during the Ghana-EU Business Forum in Accra. This initiative, part of the Special Measure on Manufacturing and Access to Vaccines, Medicines, and Health Technologies in Africa (MAV+), aims to strengthen Ghana’s healthcare system and improve access to high-quality health products, particularly vaccines. The initiative is expected to create a robust ecosystem for vaccine manufacturing by developing a skilled workforce, enhancing research and development capabilities, and establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework.
Implications for Universal Health Coverage (UHC)
This initiative has significant implications for UHC in Ghana and across Africa. Currently, 99% of vaccines used in Africa are imported, leading to vulnerabilities in health security and increased costs for governments and healthcare systems. By investing in local vaccine production capabilities, Ghana can reduce its dependency on foreign aid and donations, which have historically been unreliable.
Local production will not only lower costs but also create jobs and stimulate economic growth, aligning with UHC goals that emphasize equitable access to healthcare services. Furthermore, strengthening regulatory frameworks will enhance the safety and efficacy of vaccines available to the population.
