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Angolan President and African Union Chair João Lourenço declared that Africa is ready to take a leading role in shaping the next chapter of global immunization efforts.
Speaking at the Global Vaccine Alliance (GAVI) Summit in Brussels on Wednesday, 25 June, Lourenço emphasized the continent’s determination to move beyond its traditional role as a recipient of aid.
“As President of the African Union, I bring you a message today: Africa is not just a beneficiary, Africa is ready to be a co-author of the new era of global immunization,” said Lourenço. His remarks were delivered before a gathering of global health leaders, donors, and heads of state convened to bolster support for global vaccine initiatives.
Reflecting on the COVID-19 pandemic, Lourenço pointed to the crisis as a wake-up call that revealed the continent’s heavy dependence on external supply chains for vaccines — a vulnerability he insists must be addressed.
He expressed strong support for GAVI’s African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator (AVMA) initiative, which aims to expand vaccine production capacity across the continent.
“I support GAVI’s initiative to strengthen African regional vaccine production, within the framework of the African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator,” Lourenço stated.
Looking ahead, he emphasized that GAVI’s strategic partnership would be crucial in rolling out new vaccines for diseases that continue to have a disproportionate impact on Africa and other vulnerable populations worldwide.
He singled out tuberculosis, malaria, and dengue as key areas requiring urgent attention.
“Over the past 25 years, the Global Vaccine Alliance has been a trusted strategic partner, an effective multilateral instrument and a symbol of successful international solidarity,” said Lourenço.
He further noted that GAVI’s commitment to equity and data-driven action has allowed more than 25 low-income African nations to access life-saving immunizations, particularly new vaccines that would otherwise be out of reach.
With Africa poised to become a hub for vaccine innovation and manufacturing, Lourenço’s message was clear: the continent is ready not only to participate but to lead in global health solutions.
