As part of the agreement, Kenya will host the IVI Country Office and the Advancing Vaccine End-to-End Capabilities (AVEC) Project Office, marking a significant milestone in the country’s leadership in health innovation and vaccine production across Africa
Kenya has taken a significant leap towards strengthening its vaccine research and production capabilities with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Vaccine Institute (IVI) at Afya House. This strategic partnership aims to enhance Kenya’s self-sufficiency in vaccine production while addressing broader public health challenges across Africa.
During the signing ceremony, Health Cabinet Secretary Dr Deborah Barasa emphasized the importance of the partnership in achieving the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) goal of producing 60% of the continent’s vaccines locally by 2040. “This MoU represents our shared commitment to building a robust vaccine ecosystem that ensures equitable access and strengthens health security in Kenya and beyond,” Dr Barasa stated.
As part of the agreement, Kenya will host the IVI Country Office and the Advancing Vaccine End-to-End Capabilities (AVEC) Project Office, marking a key milestone in the country’s leadership in health innovation and vaccine production across Africa.
IVI Director General Dr Jerome Kim praised Kenya’s proactive approach, noting, “This partnership marks a bold step forward in advancing global health security through innovative and sustainable vaccine solutions.”
The collaboration will also build on Kenya’s existing achievements in vaccine research, with institutions like the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) and Kenya BioVax Institute playing vital roles in clinical trials, disease surveillance, and workforce training.
Attending the ceremony were key figures from the Ministry of Health, including Principal Secretary for Medical Services Mr Harry Kimtai, Director General for Health Dr. Patrick Amoth, Kenya BioVax CEO Dr. Michael Lusiola, and KEMRI Acting Director General Prof. Elijah Songok.
This partnership is set to reinforce Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda by increasing vaccine access, promoting innovation, and enhancing the country’s resilience in tackling future health emergencies.
