Health experts have renewed calls for Africa to intensify vaccine research and development (R&D), strengthen regulatory systems, and expand local manufacturing capacity to address Lassa fever and improve pandemic preparedness.
The renewed call came during a high-level health forum in Abidjan themed “Strengthening Regulatory Frameworks, Building Production Capacity, and Partnerships for Vaccine R&D.” The forum focused on shifting Africa away from dependency on foreign vaccine suppliers toward building sustainable, equitable systems that guarantee access for its populations.
Lassa fever, a viral haemorrhagic illness transmitted by rodents and human-to-human contact, continues to claim lives annually across West Africa. Nigeria, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea remain the hardest-hit, although other nations have also recorded outbreaks. Despite decades of study, no licensed vaccine currently exists, leaving millions vulnerable.
Dr. Nicaise Ndembi, Regional Director of IVI Africa, noted that vaccine development alone is not sufficient.
“We need robust regulatory systems to accelerate vaccine approvals, and we must develop local production capacity on the continent,” he said.
He cited Rwanda’s investments in biotechnology and vaccine manufacturing as proof that long-term commitment can strengthen health security across the region. According to him, waiting for global suppliers during outbreaks—as witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic—puts African countries at risk.
Ms. Oyeronke Oyebanji, Head of Lassa Engagement at the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), highlighted progress in research on vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics. She stressed the need for consistent leadership, greater funding, and strong partnerships among governments, academia, civil society, and industry to achieve a licensed vaccine.
Other experts shared insights:
- Dr. Michael Lusiola (RVMC) emphasized ongoing collaborations to build rapid-response vaccine manufacturing networks across Africa.
- Dr. Daryl Drummond (Akagera Medicines) underscored the role of biotech firms in advancing vaccine pipelines through innovation.
- Dr. Joe Fitchett (Institut Pasteur, Dakar) highlighted the importance of African laboratories in conducting world-class clinical trials.
- Prof. Morenike Ukpong (Obafemi Awolowo University, Ife) stressed that community trust is crucial to sustaining vaccine demand.
- Dr. Kwasi Nyarko (African Vaccine Regulatory Forum – AVAREF) called for harmonized regulatory systems across African nations to fast-track approvals without compromising safety.
Speakers agreed that Africa’s vaccine drive goes beyond Lassa fever—it is about ensuring resilience against future pandemics. The COVID-19 crisis exposed the dangers of dependence on imports, where delayed vaccine access cost many lives.
The experts concluded that boosting vaccine R&D, manufacturing, and regulation is about more than science; it represents sovereignty, preparedness, and survival. They emphasized that vaccines must move beyond laboratories and “onto the arms of those who need them most.”