A high-level delegation led by Ghana’s Minister of Health, Dr. Bernard Okoe Boye, visited South Africa on August 12 to strengthen vaccine production and accessibility in Africa. The fact-finding mission, organized by the African Vaccine Manufacturing Initiative (AVMI), aimed to enhance collaboration between Ghana and South Africa in vaccine development and manufacturing.

The delegation toured leading South African companies, Biovac and Afrigen Biologics & Vaccines, to explore their state-of-the-art facilities, research labs, and production lines. Dr. Okoe Boye reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to supporting the African manufacturing initiative and building capacity across the continent.

The visit aligns with the European Union’s recent €32 million initiative to boost vaccine production in Ghana, highlighting growing international support for Africa’s vaccine manufacturing sector. Professor William Ampofo, Executive Director of AVMI, emphasized the need for strengthened public-private partnerships in the vaccine industry.

The 11-member Ghanaian delegation included representatives from various ministries, regulatory agencies, vaccine production companies, and research institutes. AVMI, representing over 18 vaccine manufacturers across Africa, is a key player in advocating for the continent’s vaccine production capabilities.