Africa has taken a decisive step toward health independence with the launch of the African Coalition for Health Innovation, Evidence, Vaccines and Epidemics, known as ACHIEVE Africa, in Addis Ababa. The high level event brought together leaders, researchers and policymakers committed to transforming the continent’s health research and development landscape. Among those present was Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia, who described the initiative as a bold move toward true vaccine and therapeutic sovereignty. The coalition is designed to serve as Africa’s research and development engine, focusing on innovation, evidence based solutions and epidemic preparedness. Its formation signals a clear intention to reduce dependence on external suppliers and strengthen local capacity.
Africa represents 17 per cent of the global population and accounts for 25 per cent of worldwide vaccine demand. Yet the continent currently produces only about 1 per cent of the vaccines it uses. This imbalance exposes millions of people to delays and shortages during global health crises. The COVID 19 pandemic made this reality clear when supply chain disruptions left many African countries waiting for essential doses. ACHIEVE Africa aims to change this pattern by supporting full end to end capacity, from research and product design to manufacturing and delivery systems.
While progress has been made in vaccine manufacturing, leaders acknowledge that production alone is not enough. Health sovereignty requires strong research institutions, skilled scientists, reliable regulatory systems and efficient distribution networks. ACHIEVE Africa will focus on strengthening these pillars through coordinated investment and collaboration across countries. The coalition plans to foster partnerships between governments, universities, biotechnology firms and public health agencies. By aligning expertise and resources, Africa can accelerate the development of vaccines and therapeutics tailored to its specific disease burden.
The launch in Addis Ababa underscores the continent’s commitment to collective action. Epidemics do not respect borders, and no single country can address them in isolation. A unified research and development platform increases bargaining power, speeds up innovation and ensures that solutions reach communities faster. It also creates opportunities for job creation, technology transfer and economic growth within the health sector. Strong local capacity reduces long term costs and improves resilience against future outbreaks.
President Hichilema emphasized that the status quo is unacceptable and that Africa must do more to secure its health future. His remarks reflect a growing consensus among African leaders that sustainable development depends on strong health systems. By investing in research, innovation and manufacturing, the continent positions itself as an active contributor to global health security rather than a passive recipient. ACHIEVE Africa represents a strategic shift toward self reliance, accountability and regional cooperation. If implemented effectively, it could redefine how Africa prepares for and responds to epidemics while ensuring equitable access to life saving vaccines and treatments for its people.