By Jeff Kizzilah
Dr. Tom Kariuki, Chief Executive Officer of the Science for Africa Foundation speaking during the 16th KASH conference in Nairobi/photo
Dr. Tom Kariuki, Chief Executive Officer of the Science for Africa Foundation, has called on governments and local vaccine manufacturing companies to unlock funding, strengthen partnerships, and embrace technology to build a resilient and self-sustaining vaccine ecosystem for Kenya and the wider African continent.
Speaking during the 16th KASH Conference, Dr. Kariuki emphasized the need for a collaborative approach that brings together governments, international organizations, unions, donors, and private-sector players to accelerate local vaccine production.
“Let us unlock funding, work with key stakeholders, and adopt good processes supported by technology,” Dr. Kariuki said, noting that sustainable vaccine manufacturing cannot succeed in isolation.
He stressed that Africa must develop efficient supply mechanisms and vaccine distribution systems that do not disadvantage Kenya or other African countries, particularly during global health emergencies when access to vaccines becomes highly competitive.
Dr. Kariuki encouraged local manufacturers to actively engage international partners and donors, while leveraging emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence to improve production planning, supply-chain management, and demand forecasting.
“Technology, including AI, can help drive reliable vaccine supply and ensure that Africa is not left behind when global demand surges,” he said.
The remarks come amid renewed calls for vaccine sovereignty in Africa, following lessons from recent global health crises that exposed the continent’s heavy reliance on external suppliers.
The KASH Conference brought together policymakers, scientists, manufacturers, and development partners to discuss strategies for strengthening health systems, research, and innovation across Africa.
