Kenya will start trials for its first locally manufactured vaccines within two years. This major step aims to provide affordable vaccines for over three million children. The focus lies on critical vaccines for pneumonia and typhoid.
The Kenya BioVax Institute, with Ksh. 8 billion support from the World Bank, plans to roll out three vaccine types by 2027. According to CEO Dr. Charles Githinji, the country has done the groundwork and now moves into the production phase. He confirmed that the team is ready to deliver within the 24-month target.
Currently, Kenya relies heavily on donor-funded vaccine programs. More than 80% of the Ksh. 15 billion spent yearly on vaccines comes from foreign partners. As Kenya transitions into a middle-income economy, organizations like GAVI are expected to reduce their support.
To address this challenge, BioVax is setting up modern manufacturing equipment at its Embakasi facility. The plant will operate under international vaccine production standards. Dr. Githinji said the institute emerged from lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic. He believes local production will strengthen Kenya’s health security and reduce dependence on imports.
At a stakeholder meeting in Naivasha, Vision 2030 Board Chair Emmanuel Nzai praised the initiative. He highlighted its role in lowering healthcare costs and helping Kenya achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC). He also pointed out the opportunity for Kenya to lead the vaccine market in Africa.
Looking ahead, BioVax plans to join the Nairobi Securities Exchange. This move aims to attract investors and expand access to vaccines across the country.
