Kenya joins International Vaccine Institute to boost global health

President William Ruto in the company of IVI Director-General Jerome Kim. [PCS]

Kenya has officially become a State party to the International Vaccine Institute (IVI), solidifying its commitment to advancing vaccine accessibility domestically.

The accession ceremony, held at the IVI headquarters in Seoul, South Korea, marked a significant step forward, as noted by President William Ruto.

"I am truly delighted that our journey has come to fruition, and we are raising the Kenyan flag today in commemoration of Kenya’s accession as State Party of this great institution, the International Vaccine Institute," said Ruto.

Kenya's membership in the IVI positions the nation to actively contribute to the discovery, development, and distribution of safe, effective, and affordable vaccines worldwide.

President Ruto highlighted Kenya's preparedness for this role, citing the capabilities of institutions such as the Kenya BioVax Institute and the Kenya Medical Research Institute.

Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha underscored the importance of Kenya's accession to IVI in the context of achieving Universal Health Coverage.

"Our accession to IVI is coming at a critical time when the global discourse is on how we manage outbreaks and emergencies," said CS Nakhumicha.

"We have an ambitious goal of achieving universal health coverage, and I am confident we’ll be able to through partners like IVI and others who have continuously worked together."

George Bickerstaff, Chairperson of IVI’s Board of Trustees, expressed the mutual aim of Kenya and IVI to bolster vaccine research, development, and manufacturing capabilities both nationally and regionally.

IVI’s vaccine portfolio, which includes a range of vaccines such as cholera, typhoid, chikungunya, and COVID-19, reflects its commitment to addressing pressing global health challenges.

With over 40 members, including nations like Ghana, Ethiopia, and Madagascar, IVI operates in collaboration with its regional office in Rwanda and project offices in Kenya and other centres across the African region.