Ghana has been hailed for its outstanding leadership in immunization and vaccine manufacturing, as the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (Gavi) reaffirmed its $1.2 billion support for the country’s journey toward vaccine self-reliance.
During a high-level visit to health facilities in Gomoa East District in the Central Region, Gavi CEO Dr. Sania Nishtar commended Ghana for maintaining strong immunization coverage, advancing local vaccine production, and building a resilient health system.
“Ghana has maintained DTP1 and DTP3 coverage consistently above 95%, introduced 13 antigens into its national program, and is preparing for the rollout of the Hepatitis B birth dose and two new vaccines in September. Your leadership is not only recognized on the continent but internationally as well.” She noted.
She praised the country’s progress during engagements with officials from the Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service, emphasizing that Ghana is setting a benchmark in the region.
“When I visited the health facilities, I was impressed. I looked at the records myself, and everything was on point. In many countries, two children share one bed. But I saw empty hospital beds in Ghana because your primary healthcare is working. This is what success looks like.”She added.
Ghana’s progress is bolstered by local partnerships with vaccine manufacturers such as Atlantic Life Sciences and DEK Vaccines Limited. These efforts align with the African Union’s Partnership for African Vaccine Manufacturing (PAVM) framework, which promotes vaccine sovereignty across the continent.
The Gavi team, accompanied by the Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea visited facilities in Budumburam and Onyaase before meeting with officials of the Ministry of Health in Accra.
Health Minister Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh expressed appreciation for Gavi’s continued partnership.
“are especially honoured by your visit, which we view not as a formality but as a reaffirmation of strong and deep partnership between Gavi and Ghana. Your presence here speaks volumes about our shared vision and commitment to ensuring every child has access to essential health services. “
Ghana is expected to transition out of Gavi support within five years. According to the Health Minister, this transition will be supported by a sustainability plan that includes increasing domestic health investments such as a 13% allocation of the national budget to health and the uncapping of the National Health Insurance Fund.
Over the past two decades, the partnership between Ghana and Gavi has significantly expanded immunization coverage and strengthened the healthcare system, positioning Ghana as a continental leader in vaccine delivery.
Story by: Osman Issah Abadoo
