Africa's Vaccine Manufacturing PlanCEFR B1
1 Aug 2025
Adapted from Guest Contributor, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya, Unsplash
AI-assisted adaptation of the original article, simplified for language learners.
The African Union (AU) has launched an ambitious plan to produce 60% of vaccines locally by 2040, aiming to improve health security across the continent. With Africa currently manufacturing only 1% of its vaccines, this initiative seeks to empower countries in managing their health needs, especially after the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Key partnerships with organizations like the European Union, World Bank, and local manufacturers are essential for success. However, significant challenges remain, including securing adequate funding and establishing a robust regulatory framework to maintain vaccine quality and safety.
There is strong demand for vaccines in Africa, where 16% of the global population faces numerous health threats. This reliance on outside sources raises concerns about health security. Successful local manufacturing will ensure timely access to vaccines, promote self-sufficiency, and reduce the continent's dependency on imports.
For this plan to succeed, African countries must commit to buying locally made vaccines and establish a coordination mechanism to support manufacturing at a continental level.
Difficult words
- produce — to make or create something.
- challenge — a difficult situation or task.challenges
- security — safety or protection from danger.
- manufacturing — the process of making goods.
- partnership — a cooperative relationship between people or organizations.partnerships
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- What are some potential benefits of producing vaccines locally?
- How can African countries support each other in this initiative?
- What challenges do you think will be most difficult to overcome?
- In what ways can local manufacturing improve health security?
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