Collaborative network for vaccine research in West and East Africa

Investing in vaccine innovation is essential for enabling African countries to respond swiftly to outbreaks, easing pressure on health-care systems, saving lives and preventing economic disruption. The foundation of vaccine innovation lies in research, encompassing laboratory studies and clinical trials to discover and test new vaccine candidates. Once proven safe and effective, vaccines are manufactured and distributed to protect communities. African governments have pledged to produce 60% of the continent’s vaccine needs by 2040. As efforts to expand manufacturing grow, it is vital to strengthen Africa’s vaccine innovation ecosystem through sustained investment in research.

National science granting councils are well positioned to support the development of their respective vaccine innovation ecosystems. They play a key role in supporting efficient, impactful research and innovation systems in their countries. Many are also increasingly involved in technology development and broader innovation efforts.

This project, which brings together national science granting councils in Sierra Leone, Tanzania and Kenya, will enhance the resilience, efficiency and sustainability of vaccine ecosystems through research and capacity strengthening. It will refine a research agenda and launch a joint call for proposals focused on four priorities: building sustainable vaccine research-and-development capacity; strengthening regulatory systems and harmonization; building community trust in vaccines; and strengthening vaccine delivery systems.

By engaging experts and stakeholders across health systems, the project will directly support health-related development outcomes. It will also build the capacity of councils and research institutions to lead in vaccine innovation and policy, ensuring long-term impact across the continent.