• Ghana increases its vaccine budget by 46%, fully pays $24.5 million to Gavi.

• The government expects to distribute hundreds of thousands of vaccine doses nationwide by August.

• Ghana aims to become a regional vaccine manufacturing hub.

Gavi has helped improve vaccine access in Ghana since 2000, vaccinating nearly 95% of children by 2023, official data shows. This year, the Ghanaian government increased its vaccine budget by 46% to expand immunisation coverage and avoid stock shortages. Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh announced the government fully paid $24.5 million to Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.

In his six-month health sector report to the presidency, Akandoh highlighted that the budget hike signals the government’s strong commitment to protecting children’s health and preventing epidemics.

“As we say, investing in our children’s health today is securing Ghana’s tomorrow,” he said. "The government will continue to prioritise and invest in immunisation to protect every child and build a healthier nation for generations to come.” The minister said the country expects to receive hundreds of thousands of vaccine doses by August, which will be distributed nationwide. 

In Ghana, Gavi plays a crucial role in expanding equitable vaccine access. Since 2000, the alliance has ensured availability of vaccines against diseases like pneumonia, helped prevent epidemics, lowered public health costs, and bolstered health systems.

Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh also reiterated Ghana’s goal to become a regional vaccine manufacturing hub. He said the National Vaccine Institute is collaborating with regulatory bodies and the pharmaceutical sector to achieve this objective.

This article was initially published in French by Ingrid Haffiny (intern)

Edited in English by Ange Jason Quenum