Prez. Mahama Calls on Global Vaccine Firms to Back Ghana’s Planned Vaccine Manufacturing Hub
President John Dramani Mahama is urging international vaccine manufacturers to partner with government in establishing the Ghana Vaccine Manufacturing Hub, a major strategic initiative designed to enhance both national and continental health security.
Addressing pharmaceutical industry leaders at the WHX Leaders Conference, President Mahama said Africa’s experience during the COVID-19 pandemic exposed significant weaknesses in the region’s health systems, particularly its reliance on imported vaccines.
He noted that the proposed hub would expand Ghana’s capacity to produce vaccines locally while improving the continent’s readiness for future health emergencies.
“We cannot continue to depend entirely on imports for vaccines that determine our survival. We are calling on manufacturers and investors to collaborate with government to make this hub a reality,” he stated.
President Mahama added that Ghana’s growing pharmaceutical sector, combined with its strategic location in West Africa, positions the country to play a leading role in vaccine production and distribution across the continent.
Meanwhile, Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, said the ministry is already in talks with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat to facilitate smooth intra-African trade once local vaccine production begins.
She explained that eliminating trade barriers and strengthening market access under AfCFTA would enable Ghana-made vaccines and related health products to compete strongly across the continent.
“We are working closely with the AfCFTA to create smooth access for our manufacturers across Africa. This is essential if we want to build strong, competitive industries,” she said.
Peter Hall, President for the Middle East, India, Turkey and Africa at Informa Markets, underscored the value of forums like the WHX Leaders Conference.
He said such platforms promote collaboration, encourage innovation and help governments, investors, and industry stakeholders build resilient health and industrial systems.
