H.E Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director-General, Africa CDC, and IAVI’s Mark Feinberg sign the MoU in New York.

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IAVI, a nonprofit scientific research organization, to enhance Africa's capacity for vaccine and antibody development. This strategic partnership aims to strengthen the continent’s preparedness for future pandemics by expanding local research, manufacturing, and distribution of critical vaccines and antibodies.

The collaboration will support Africa CDC’s efforts to address urgent public health challenges and foster long-term health security across Africa. Key focus areas include developing vaccines and antibodies for diseases of regional concern, such as Lassa fever and HIV while creating a sustainable supply ecosystem for vital products like monoclonal antibodies.

Dr. Mark Feinberg, IAVI’s president and CEO, emphasized the broader impact of the partnership, stating, “This cooperation is a key step in IAVI's mission to improve global access to biomedical innovations and safeguard public health. It’s about creating a vibrant health innovation ecosystem that meets current and future needs across Africa.”

The partnership also seeks to strengthen Africa’s research and development infrastructure, promoting self-reliance in the production and distribution of medical countermeasures during health crises. Additionally, the initiative will explore the establishment of regional stockpiles of vaccines and other biomedical products to ensure a swift response in emergencies.

This collaboration aligns with Africa CDC’s New Public Health Order, which aims to reshape global health architecture and enhance Africa’s resilience to health threats. The MoU underscores the importance of action-driven partnerships in achieving this vision.

Key partners in this initiative include Wellcome, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), and the U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). Together, Africa CDC and IAVI aim to accelerate vaccine and antibody development and position Africa as a key player in global health innovation.

 

Article by Nyokabi Wanjiku

Photo/IAVI

https://www.iavi.org/press-release/iavi-africa-cdc-sign-mou/