By KENSJA Reporter
Patrick Osewe, chief of the Health Sector Group at the Asian Development Bank (ADB), highlights the potential benefits of a regional approach to vaccine development. He emphasizes that the cost of developing a vaccine can be significantly reduced if nations pool their funds, fostering a sense of optimism among the audience.
“To succeed, vaccine Production requires a massive investment in human resources and the application of technology, hence the need for partnership.”
Mr Patrick Osewe
Mr Osewe observes that since the lifespan of COVID-19 may be ending, the nations should consider repurposing the capacity of manufacturing plants to produce other much-needed vaccines. He added that the nations should also consider developing a network of scientists to help them share information at different stages. The executive noted that even though the COVID-19 outbreak and its spread are a wake-up call for African nations to begin developing their vaccines, there is a need to assemble state-of-the-art laboratories and engage highly skilled human resources.
Noting that developing and releasing a vaccine takes seven years, Osewe says that governments must allocate the required funding for vaccine development since the continent’s research capacity in this field is still limited. He suggests that nations consider partnering with countries on the European and Asian continents and universities already producing vaccines, opening up opportunities for growth and progress in African nations.
Osewe underscores the urgency, stating that nations need to develop animal facilities to test immune responses before proceeding to human trials. He emphasizes the need to engage with communities and health professionals early to understand what is being developed and avoid hesitancy when the vaccines are finally available.
He says that even though vaccines are very safe, there is a need to create awareness amongst populations and health professionals about their safety before release. The executive adds that vaccine manufacturing in the continent currently stands at one per cent. Still, he said, there is an urgent need to increase the figure since the population is young and, therefore, needs long-term intervention in disease management.