Amref Health Africa has expressed strong criticism regarding the decision to launch the African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator (AVMA) in Paris rather than on African soil. The $1 billion initiative, co-hosted by the African Union, Gavi, and France, is scheduled for launch on June 20, 2024. According to Amref Health Africa, this choice represents a missed opportunity to emphasize Africa's ownership and leadership in enhancing its vaccine manufacturing capabilities.
Dr Githinji Gitahi, Group CEO of Amref Health Africa, highlighted concerns during the 77th World Health Assembly in Geneva, arguing that launching the AVMA in Africa would symbolize the continent's proactive stance and commitment to its health future. The organization contends that hosting such a critical initiative in Europe undermines efforts to foster local ownership and leadership within Africa.
The decision has ignited debate around localization and the empowerment of African communities in health initiatives. Advocates for an African launch argue that it would facilitate greater local engagement from stakeholders, including governments, health officials, manufacturers, scientists, civil society organizations, and the private sector. This, they believe, could lead to more tailored discussions and collaborations addressing Africa's specific challenges and opportunities.
Amref Health Africa also underscored the potential of an African launch to generate substantial local media coverage, raise awareness, and build public support within the continent. Such visibility, they argue, could transform the narrative around African innovation and capability in tackling public health challenges, fostering pride and social accountability among African communities.
Moreover, hosting the AVMA in Africa would provide a platform to showcase existing vaccine manufacturing hubs like South Africa's Biovac Institute and Senegal's Institut Pasteur, demonstrating the continent's readiness to scale up production independently.
While logistical and diplomatic factors may have influenced the decision to launch in Paris, proponents of an African venue stress the importance of reinforcing continental ownership and showcasing Africa's capabilities on a global stage. They advocate aligning the AVMA launch with Africa's objectives to ensure its impact is deeply rooted in the context it aims to serve.
Amref Health Africa's criticism reflects broader concerns about empowering African nations in global health initiatives and ensuring that initiatives like AVMA contribute effectively to Africa's health sovereignty and sustainable development goals.
Article by Jed Mwangi
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