Health

Health CS Aden Duale Announces Plan to Roll Out First Kenyan-Manufactured Vaccine

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4 months ago Scott

Kenya is on track to produce its first locally manufactured vaccine, with the government planning a rollout in 2027.

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale revealed the development on Monday, January 12, following a strategic meeting with the Kenya BioVax Institute’s board and senior management.

During the meeting, Duale reviewed progress on the vaccine manufacturing program, which is a key part of the government’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda aimed at ensuring wider access to affordable and reliable vaccines.

“The engagement highlighted key milestones, including the trial batch of Kenya’s first locally made vaccine, set for release by the end of 2026,” Duale shared on his social media platforms.

Progress at BioVax Institute

The Health CS confirmed that phase one of the manufacturing facility is complete, with full government funding covering the initial stage. The project has now moved into phase two, which focuses on installing equipment and integrating systems, including fill-and-finish technology essential for vaccine production.

Kenya’s journey from a vaccine consumer to a manufacturer began with the establishment of the Kenya BioVax Institute in 2021, following the COVID-19 outbreak. With the first homegrown vaccine set for 2027, the country is marking a major milestone in its healthcare development.

Strengthening Regulatory Standards

Duale also highlighted Kenya’s achievement of World Health Organization (WHO) Maturity Level 3, a regulatory milestone attained with support from the Pharmacy and Poisons Board and the National Quality Control Laboratory.

“This certification not only enables local pharmaceutical manufacturing but also boosts global confidence in Kenya’s regulatory systems,” Duale said. He added that the country is now positioned as a potential regional hub for vaccine and pharmaceutical production.

Strategic Partnerships and Economic Impact

The initiative has benefited from partnerships, notably with the World Bank’s Regional Health Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Resilience (HEPRRP) program, which supports healthcare capacity, pharmaceutical expansion, and national emergency preparedness.

During a discussion with BioVax staff, Duale emphasized transparency and accountability as essential values in public service, particularly in delivering people-centred healthcare.

Once fully operational, the Kenya BioVax Institute is expected to reduce reliance on imported vaccines, strengthen the country’s health security, and contribute to economic growth, aligning with the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).