EGYPT— The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has entered into a landmark Cooperation Agreement with the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) aimed at strengthening health systems across Africa and enhancing the well-being of its citizens.
This significant partnership underscores both organizations’ shared commitment to advancing regional vaccine research, development, and sustainable manufacturing capabilities.
As part of the agreement, Afreximbank and Africa CDC will collaborate on several strategic initiatives, notably the operationalization of the Africa Pooled Procurement Mechanism (APPM) in close cooperation with the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA).
These initiatives will focus on developing and implementing priority projects to boost Africa’s healthcare manufacturing sector and promote innovative financing mechanisms that support health research and development across the continent.
Both institutions plan to leverage the achievements made through the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) to enhance their efforts.
Recognizing the critical role of Africa CDC in ensuring health security for the continent, Afreximbank is committed to supporting Africa CDC in achieving financial sustainability.
This partnership aligns with the African Union’s ambitious ‘New Public Health Order,’ which aims to produce 60% of Africa’s vaccine needs within the continent by 2040.
Less than 1% of vaccines are produced in Africa, but the interim goals are set at 10% by 2025 and 30% by 2030.
The expanded partnership will focus on local manufacturing in all aspects, including financing, market shaping, technology transfers, and talent development.
This comprehensive approach is intended to democratize access to vital medicines and medical equipment, ensuring that Africa can meet its own health needs.
At the signing ceremony, Prof. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, emphasized the progress already made through the collaboration that began with the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic.
He noted, “Formalizing this collaboration is a natural step towards achieving the socio-economic development of Africa. In a short span of time, we have already seen significant advancements, and we are committed to continuing this momentum.”
Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director General of Africa CDC, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of Africa’s capacity to produce essential health products within the continent.
He emphasized that Pillar 2 of the new public health regime, Expanded Manufacturing of Vaccines, Diagnostics, and Therapeutics, highlights the importance of democratizing access to key medicines and equipment.
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