A new research initiative is set to enhance East and Central Africa’s capacity to respond to disease outbreaks through advanced-stage vaccine trials. The Research Preparedness Program in East and Central Africa (RPECA), supported by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), will strengthen clinical trial infrastructure and fast-track the region’s ability to test vaccines for both endemic and emerging health threats.
The program, funded up to $3.5 million, will be implemented in partnership with PATH, a global nonprofit with extensive experience in vaccine research. PATH will coordinate with national institutions and ministries of health to establish Good Clinical Practice (GCP)-compliant trial sites and improve regional research capacity.
“This investment will help generate real-time data during outbreaks and ensure faster access to vaccines,” said Dr. Kent Kester, CEPI’s Executive Director of R&D. The initiative aligns with CEPI’s 100 Days Mission—an ambitious global target to develop vaccines within 100 days of identifying a new pathogen.
RPECA will prioritize diseases such as Rift Valley fever and mpox, while also preparing for future unknown epidemics. Africa CDC has endorsed the program, calling it a critical step toward empowering African scientists and ensuring the continent’s self-reliance in health security.
As African nations face increasing risks from emerging diseases, this initiative offers a proactive model for regional collaboration and resilience in global vaccine development.
Article by Nyokabi Wanjiku
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