Prompting leaders to call for increased vaccine production
Africa must urgently enhance its vaccine manufacturing capacity to effectively address disease outbreaks, stated Angola’s President João Lourenço during emergency discussions on Wednesday regarding a severe cholera surge across the continent.
As the current chair of the African Union, Lourenço organized virtual meetings with other African leaders to address the alarming increase in cholera cases in several countries, including Angola, Sudan, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
“To ensure a strong and sustainable response to this and future crises, it is essential to establish drug and vaccine production within our continent,” Lourenço remarked. He highlighted that Africa's heavy dependence on imported medicines and vaccines hampers its ability to respond effectively and undermines its health sovereignty.
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the director-general of the World Health Organization, participated in the discussions.
A recent report from Africa’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that more than 90 percent of vaccines, diagnostics, medicines, and other essential health products used in Africa are imported. This reliance has consistently hindered timely responses during outbreaks, including Covid-19, Ebola, Marburg, and mpox.
This year, cholera, an acute intestinal infection, has significantly impacted several African countries. As of June 2, Angola has reported over 24,530 cases and 718 deaths. Meanwhile, Sudan has recently recorded 172 deaths in just one week amid ongoing conflict.
The CDC report also noted a sharp increase in health emergencies across Africa, rising from 152 in 2022 to 213 in 2024. This trend highlights the continent's vulnerability to disruptions in global trade, geopolitical tensions, and logistical challenges.
