EU Pledges €750M+ to African Vaccine Initiative
Today, the European Union (EU) and its Member States have announced a substantial commitment exceeding €750 million (more than $800 million) to bolster the African Vaccines Manufacturing Accelerator (AVMA). Launched in Paris, this initiative aims to revolutionize vaccine production capabilities across Africa in collaboration with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).
Financial Commitment
The EU budget alone will contribute close to €220 million ($233 million) to AVMA, marking a significant step towards enhancing Africa's self-reliance in vaccine production. This funding is part of a broader effort by the EU and member states such as France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, and Luxembourg, making them the largest contributors to this initiative.
Objectives and Impact
AVMA plans to purchase over 800 million vaccine doses manufactured in Africa over the next decade. This move not only aims to meet regional demand predictably but also supports sustainable growth of Africa's vaccine manufacturing capabilities. It aligns with the African Union's goal to produce the majority of vaccines needed on the continent, thereby bolstering local health security and pandemic preparedness.
Global Health Security
Beyond local benefits, AVMA is set to contribute more than €1 billion ($1.1 billion) to African vaccine manufacturers, offsetting initial costs and ensuring stable demand. This initiative also targets diversifying the global vaccine supplier base, with a goal of integrating at least four African manufacturers sustainably into the market.
Strategic Collaboration
The initiative forms a key part of the EU's Global Gateway strategy, emphasizing collaboration with African partners to strengthen vaccine manufacturing infrastructure. Under the Manufacturing and Access to Vaccines (MAV+) initiative, Team Europe is fostering an enabling environment for the sector, including workforce training, regulatory strengthening, and technology transfer.
Geopolitical and Development Objectives
The EU's investment in AVMA not only promotes equitable access to essential health products and services but also aligns with broader geopolitical and development goals. These include job creation, diversification of global value chains, and fostering innovation within Africa's healthcare sector.
