The $45 million investment will support vaccine manufacturing in Africa through the expansion of IPD’s MADIBA facility, aligning with the African Union’s Vision 2040.
In a landmark move aimed at enhancing vaccine production capabilities in Africa, the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), the African Development Bank (AfDB), and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) have committed $45 million to VaxSen, a subsidiary of Senegal’s Institut Pasteur de Dakar (IPD).
The financing agreement, finalized on December 13, 2024, is designed to bolster public health infrastructure and improve vaccine access across the continent.
The primary goal of the investment is to boost local vaccine production capacity, support local supply chains, and establish a robust vaccine distribution network aligned with the African Union’s Vision 2040. The initiative aims to achieve 60% local vaccine production in Africa, reducing reliance on imports and fostering self-sufficiency in healthcare.
Expansion of Vaccine Manufacturing Facilities
The investment will support the expansion of IPD’s MADIBA facility, a key hub for vaccine manufacturing in Africa. This development is expected to generate jobs, stimulate economic growth, and enhance Africa’s vaccine production capacity.
“This collaboration will focus on expanding IPD’s state-of-the-art MADIBA facility,” said Ousmane Fall, Director of Non-Sovereign Operations at AfDB.
Addressing Vaccine Supply Gaps
The partners emphasized that this $45 million investment is designed to fill critical gaps in global vaccine supply chains. By boosting local vaccine production and distribution, the initiative aims to create a secure and sustainable healthcare infrastructure across Africa. This project also aligns with several key development goals:
- African Union Vision 2040: Promoting local vaccine production and building resilient health systems.
- United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
African Development Bank’s Commitment
Ousmane Fall stressed that this initiative represents a significant milestone in diversifying Africa’s vaccine portfolio. He highlighted AfDB’s commitment to increasing local vaccine production and improving the continent’s pharmaceutical output.
Nisha Biswal, Deputy Director of DFC, confirmed that their support includes a $15 million loan and a $3 million technical assistance grant. This financial backing has been pivotal in the construction of the MADIBA facility and expanding its vaccine manufacturing capacity.
“This facility will significantly enhance IPD’s ability to produce a variety of vaccines beyond its traditional focus on yellow fever,” Biswal said.
Dr. Amadou Sall, CEO of IPD, emphasized the importance of the funding in advancing Africa’s vaccine sovereignty, aiming to ensure equitable access to life-saving vaccines.
“With this funding, we are moving closer to vaccine sovereignty and ensuring that no African is left behind in accessing life-saving solutions,” Sall said.
Assietou Diouf, CEO of VaxSen, echoed these sentiments, vowing to leverage innovation and partnerships to address health equity challenges.
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