Zambia, IVI sign landmark MoU to advance local vaccine manufacturing
Presidential Advisor on Health and Director General of ZNPHI, Professor Roma Chilengi (right) with
By Hellen Bwalya and Derrick Sinjela
Zambia National Public Health Institute (ZNPHI) and the International Vaccine Institute (IVI) signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at State House, Lusaka, marking a transformative step in Zambia’s journey toward health sovereignty and regional leadership in vaccine manufacturing.
The signing ceremony, witnessed by senior government officials, global health partners, private sector representatives, and civil society, formalised Zambia’s commitment to building a robust vaccine production ecosystem. It aligns with the African Union’s 2040 vision for expanding Africa’s vaccine manufacturing capacity and positions Zambia as a pioneer in regional health innovation.
Speaking at the event, Presidential Advisor on Health and Director General of ZNPHI, Professor Roma Chilengi, described the partnership as “a strategic leap forward”.
Professor Chilengi emphasized that the initiative is not merely technical it is foundational to creating an enabling environment for producing a wide array of vaccines tailored to national and continental health needs.
“This is a first for Zambia, and it sets us apart as a pioneer in Africa’s health manufacturing landscape. Africa must stop relying on imported vaccines. Zambia is not only targeting its domestic market, we are positioning ourselves to serve the entire continent,” Prof. Chilengi stated in a 29th August, 2025 Press Statement signed and circulated by Public Health Policy Diplomacy and Communications (PHPDC) Director, Dr. Doreen Shempela.
The MoU outlines a 10-point framework for collaboration between ZNPHI and IVI, covering: ‘Technology transfer & process development’, facility design & GMP readiness, quality systems & analytical development, regulatory strategy & dossier support, workforce development & training, Preclinical & clinical readiness surveillance & evidence generation, project management & financing, translational hubs & pilot manufacturing, Commercialization & market access.
Prof. Chilengi acknowledged the critical support of the European Union and the World Health Organization (WHO) in helping Zambia meet regulatory benchmarks, and commended Zambian pharmaceutical companies such as Yash Life Sciences for their readiness to begin vaccine production.
The cholera vaccine will serve as Zambia’s entry point, with plans to diversify the portfolio to ensure commercial viability.
On his part, IVI Director General, Prof. Jerome Kim, expressed gratitude to the Zambian government for its bold pursuit of vaccine manufacturing and applauded President Hakainde Hichilema’s visionary leadership:
“This collaboration will provide Zambia with hands on experience in vaccine research and development. It is a gradual process, but IVI is fully committed to supporting Zambia every step of the way.”
World Health Organization (WHO) Zambia Country Representative, Dr. Clement Peter Lusaba, described the signing as a pivotal moment for Africa’s health agenda and called for robust sensitization campaigns to prepare the market for locally produced vaccines. He reaffirmed WHO’s continued support for Zambia’s health ambitions.
“Zambia will take the lead in local products manufacturing, and we hope other countries can join to improve the well being of people across the region,” Dr. Lusaba said.
This partnership is not just a contract, it is a commitment to a healthier, more selfreliant Africa. Through innovation, capacity building, and sustainable vaccine supply, Zambia stands ready to lead. –ZNPHI/IVI
About ZNPHI
The Zambia National Public Health Institute (ZNPHI) is the country’s technical agency for public health security, responsible for surveillance, preparedness, research, and capacity building to protect the health of Zambians.
About IVI
The International Vaccine Institute (IVI), established in 1997 as an international organization, is devoted to the discovery, development, and delivery of safe, effective, and affordable vaccines for global health.
