The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has lauded the Government of Ghana for strengthening its immunisation programme through timely vaccine financing.
This follows the Government of Ghana’s full payment of its vaccine debt of US$24.5 million to Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.
In a statement on its website, UNICEF noted that the “full payment of US$24.5 million enables timely vaccine procurement and reinforces commitment to child health.”
This follows a disclosure by the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, during the Government Accountability Series, where he gave an update on the state of the health sector in the country, announcing a 46% increase in budget allocation for vaccines.
According to the Minister, the government’s commitment towards improving child health is unprecedented.
“The Government of Ghana has demonstrated the steadfast commitment to the health and well being on our children. This year, we increased budget for vaccine by 46%. As of today, we have fully paid the country’s US$24.5 million to Gavi,” Akandoh stated.
He added that “this prompt payment will help ensure we avoid recurring shortages of critical vaccines which can lead to outbreaks.”
The Minister noted that the government will be receiving thousands of vaccine doses by next month, for onward distribution across the country.
“By August, we’ll receive hundreds of thousands of vaccine doses ready to reach every community across the nation.”
Akandoh noted that the achievement is an investment in the healthcare of Ghanaian children today and for future generations.
UNICEF welcomed the payment, indicating the milestone will ensure Ghana doesn’t fall short of vaccine supply.
“This timely payment helps sustain progress in protecting children’s health and significantly reduces the risk of vaccine shortages.
“It is a strong demonstration of the Government’s continued commitment to strengthening the national immunization programme,” the statement added.
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