KEY POINTS
- Ghana has paid $24.5 million to GAVI to prevent vaccine shortages and ensure continuous supply across the country.
- The Health Minister announced that vaccine doses will begin arriving in August and reiterated plans to make Ghana a vaccine manufacturing hub.
- A private firm has received FDA approval to produce Snake Anti-Venom Serum, marking progress in Ghana’s local pharmaceutical industry.
Ghana has remitted $24.5 million to the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation, GAVI, to secure a steady supply of essential vaccines for the nation’s children.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, during a press briefing held at the Presidency in Accra as part of the Government Accountability Series.
According to the Minister, the payment reflects Ghana’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding public health, particularly for its youngest citizens.
“This year, we increased the budget for vaccines by 46 per cent. As of today, we have fully paid the country’s $24.5 million to GAVI,” he revealed during the mid-year sectoral report.
He explained that this timely payment would play a crucial role in ensuring the country does not experience recurring shortages of vital vaccines.
“This prompt payment will help ensure we avoid recurring shortages of critical vaccines, which can lead to outbreaks,” Mr Akandoh stated.
Ghana to Receive Thousands of Vaccines in August
He disclosed that Ghana will receive hundreds of thousands of vaccine doses by August, aiming to reach every corner of the country.
Mr Akandoh emphasised the government’s intention to sustain its investment in immunisation to build a resilient and healthy nation.
“As we say, investing in our children’s health today is securing Ghana’s tomorrow,” he said. “We are not resting on our achievements. The government will continue to prioritise and invest in immunisation to protect every child and build a healthier nation for generations to come.”
In a strategic move to reduce dependence on imported vaccines, the Minister reiterated Ghana’s commitment to becoming a regional hub for vaccine manufacturing. The initiative is being spearheaded by the National Vaccine Institute, which is collaborating with the country’s regulatory authorities and industry stakeholders to actualise the vision.
Further progress in local pharmaceutical production was also highlighted, as Mr Akandoh disclosed that a private sector partner had received market authorisation from Ghana’s Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) to commercially produce Snake Anti-Venom Serum.
This development marks a significant step in shifting Ghana’s role from being a consumer to a producer of essential medicines. The anti-venom, once rolled out, is expected to strengthen the country’s capacity to address venomous snake bites, a public health concern in rural areas.
Ghana’s efforts are being widely lauded by public health advocates and global health partners. GAVI, which supports low- and middle-income countries with access to life-saving vaccines, has been one of Ghana’s critical allies in bolstering immunisation coverage and reducing child mortality.
Analysts say timely payments like this will not only improve vaccine supply reliability but also demonstrate financial credibility that can unlock further support from international health agencies and donors.
Ghana’s ambitious immunisation and manufacturing plans are part of broader efforts to achieve Universal Health Coverage by 2030, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
