The Minister for Health Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has highlighted Ghana’s progress with the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI) over two decades.
“These achievements range from introducing new vaccines and strengthening health systems to expanding access to essential immunization services for underserved populations,” he said.
Mr Akandoh made this statement when the Chief Executive Officer of the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (Gavi), Dr. Sania Nishtar, paid a courtesy call on him to deepen the partnership between Ghana and Gavi.
He emphasized Ghana’s commitment to sustainable immunization financing, citing the removal of the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL) cap and a 13% increase in the 2025 health budget as key milestones.
He announced plans to introduce two new vaccines, the Hepatitis B birth dose and the HPV vaccine, with continued technical and financial support from Gavi.
Mr. Akandoh noted that Ghana was working to ensure long-term sustainability as it prepares for full transition from Gavi support by 2030.
“These efforts include the development of an Investment Case for Immunization and advancing domestic vaccine manufacturing through partnerships with Atlantic Lifesciences and DEK Vaccines, aligning with Gavi’s African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator initiative,” he added.
The Chief Executive Officer of GAVI, Dr. Sania Nishtar, praised Ghana’s consistent immunization leadership and dedication to improving vaccine access for all children.
She acknowledged the government’s strong commitment to domestic resource mobilization, including recent policy reforms such as removing the NHIL cap and increasing allocation in the health budget.
Dr. Nishtar mentioned the development of Ghana’s Investment Case for Immunization as part of its roadmap toward transitioning from Gavi support by 2030 and the role in regional vaccine manufacturing, which promises local partnerships under the African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator.
She expressed Gavi’s support for Ghana’s strategic direction and reaffirmed the Alliance’s continued commitment to working closely with the country throughout its transition toward full ownership of its immunization programme.
Priscilla Osei-Wusu Nimako, ISD
