Hakainde Hichilema has described it as embarrassing that Africa produces only one percent of the world’s vaccines despite accounting for about 25 percent of global vaccine demand. Speaking during the ACHIEVE Africa launch in Ethiopia on Sunday, President Hichilema stressed that the continent must take urgent steps to close the production gap. He noted that Africa holds 17 percent of the global population yet remains heavily dependent on external suppliers for essential vaccines. According to the President, this imbalance exposes African nations to supply shocks and delays during global health emergencies. He called on African leaders to work together with clear targets and practical strategies to change this trajectory.
President Hichilema emphasized that Africa must aim to produce at least 60 percent of its vaccines by 2040. He stated that achieving this target will require unity, smart partnerships and sustained investment in research, manufacturing and regulatory systems. The President urged governments to prioritize innovation, strengthen local pharmaceutical industries and support skills development in science and technology. He pointed out that increasing production capacity is not only about health security but also about economic growth and job creation across the continent. By building strong local value chains, African countries can reduce import costs and retain more value within their economies.
The President’s remarks align with broader continental efforts to strengthen health sovereignty through initiatives such as the African Coalition for Health Innovation, Evidence, Vaccines and Epidemics. He reiterated that Africa can no longer rely solely on external producers for life saving vaccines. Instead, countries must collaborate, share expertise and create an enabling environment for private sector participation. Reaching 60 percent vaccine production by 2040 will demand consistent political will, coordinated policy reforms and measurable milestones. President Hichilema’s message was clear that Africa must act decisively now to secure its health future and ensure equitable access to vaccines for its growing population.