LUSAKA, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Zambia and the International Vaccine Institute have signed a landmark memorandum of understanding to boost local vaccine manufacturing, according to a statement released on Friday.
The agreement formalizes Zambia's commitment to building a robust vaccine ecosystem, said the Zambia National Public Health Institute (ZNPHI), a government agency.
ZNPHI Director-General Roma Chilengi described the partnership as "a strategic leap forward."
"This initiative is not merely technical; it is foundational to create an enabling environment for producing a wide array of vaccines tailored to national and continental health needs. This is a first for Zambia, and it sets us apart as a pioneer in Africa's health manufacturing landscape," he said.
Chilengi emphasized the need for Africa to move away from reliance on imported vaccines, noting that Zambia aims not only to meet its domestic needs but also to supply vaccines across the continent.
World Health Organization (WHO) Country Representative Clement Peter Lasuba described the signing as a pivotal moment for Africa's health agenda and emphasized the importance of public sensitization to prepare the market for locally produced vaccines.
He reaffirmed the WHO's commitment to supporting Zambia's health goals.
"This partnership is not just a contract; it is a commitment to a healthier, more self-reliant Africa. Zambia will take the lead in local vaccine production, and we hope other countries will follow to improve the well-being of people across the region," he added.
