Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Kazeem Biriowo
Published on 2024-04-05 17:37:14
The GAVI international vaccine alliance has emphasized the need for Nigeria to create an investment-friendly environment to attract organizations interested in vaccine production. Dr. Sania Nishtar, the Chief Executive Officer of Gavi, announced plans to launch a program aimed at accelerating vaccine manufacturing and utilization in Africa, with an advanced market commitment of $1 billion.
During her visit to a Primary Healthcare facility in Mabushi, Abuja, Dr. Nishtar reiterated Gavi’s commitment to providing vaccinations to every child worldwide to prevent deadly diseases. When asked about support for local vaccine manufacturers in Nigeria, she highlighted the importance of creating the right institutional environment with regulatory capacity and providing subsidies to promote vaccine production. Dr. Nishtar emphasized that it is the country’s responsibility to facilitate organizations interested in vaccine production and create an investment environment conducive to their operations.
She also explained the different roles played by international organizations in the vaccine manufacturing sector and emphasized Gavi’s role in shaping the market to make vaccine manufacturing viable, qualitative, and affordable in Africa. The initiative to activate a vaccine manufacturing accelerator with a $1 billion commitment was praised as a step towards achieving this goal.
Regarding Gavi’s interventions in Nigeria, Dr. Nishtar expressed the organization’s commitment to working with the government to ensure that every child in Nigeria is vaccinated against preventable diseases. She pledged collaboration with the government to improve healthcare facilities and overcome obstacles to accessing healthcare services. Dr. Nishtar also highlighted the importance of primary healthcare centers as the backbone of the healthcare delivery system and assured continued support from Gavi and other development partners to sustain them.
The Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr. Muyi Aina, commended the improvements in routine immunization and vaccination programs in Nigeria, which have contributed to better health outcomes for children and mothers. He acknowledged the government’s efforts to scale up vaccination activities and highlighted the partnership with Gavi as a crucial element in making vaccines more accessible in the country.
During the visit to Mabushi, the Gavi team interacted with the District Head and local residents, emphasizing the importance of vaccination and healthcare services. Dr. Nishtar also engaged with hospital personnel, women, and children receiving treatment at the Primary Health Centre, reaffirming Gavi’s commitment to supporting healthcare initiatives in Nigeria.
Overall, Gavi’s initiatives aim to strengthen vaccine manufacturing capabilities in Nigeria and improve access to essential healthcare services, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes for the population. Through partnerships with governments and local organizations, Gavi continues to work towards its vision of a healthier world for all.
Read the original article on Nigerian Tribune
