India's vaccine support emerges as lifeline for Africa: Report
New Delhi, June 22
The postponement of the India‑Africa Forum Summit IV -- originally scheduled for 28-31 May here -- over "emerging public health situation" from Bundibugyo Ebola outbreaks underscored India's emerging role as a rapid vaccine manufacturer for Africa, a new report has said.
The postponement of the event spotlighted "India's decisive role in fast-tracking the critical production of a vaccine via the Serum Institute of India (SII), positioning New Delhi as an indispensable partner which has made urgent and swift interventions", the report from South Africa-based IOL said.
Bundibugyo Ebola outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda caused worries about the safety and full participation of African leaders and delegations.
Partnering with CEPI, Oxford and African stakeholders, the Serum Institute of India's intervention mirrors India's responsible Covid-19 interventions. SII emerged as the world's vaccine powerhouse, delivering billions of doses affordably for the Global South, including African nations, often at cost or low margins.
Serum Institute of India is leveraging ChAdOx1 technology to produce a vaccine for the Bundibugyo strain, with reports suggesting clinical‑grade doses could be ready for trials within two to three months.
"This swift intervention positions India as a reliable big brother to Africa, prioritising affordable access for affected nations while working closely with African counterparts on trial preparedness and distribution planning," the report noted.
The African Union (AU) collaborates for the health intervention through the Africa Centres for Disease Control, declaring a Public Health Emergency and pushing for vaccines by year's end.
However, core R&D and manufacturing for this candidate vaccine come from other countries.
The report noted that India's support to African nations extends beyond vaccines, with 1,000 metric tons donated to Burkina Faso and aid to Malawi and Mozambique.
"Partnerships with India, CEPI, Oxford, and others are vital bridges, but true self-reliance demands sustained investment in local biotech, technology transfer, and unified regulatory frameworks," the media house noted.
— IANS
Reader Comments
This is wonderful news, but let's not forget that the core technology is still from Oxford. India is manufacturing, not innovating the vaccine itself. We need to invest more in our own R&D so we can develop vaccines from scratch next time. Still, better than nothing! 😊
Excellent initiative! India has always been a friend to Africa - from the days of the Non-Aligned Movement to now providing vaccines and humanitarian aid. This is what South-South cooperation looks like. Kudos to the Serum Institute and our government! 👏
Big brother to Africa? That phrase sounds a bit patronising, no? We should see this as a partnership, not a one-sided relationship. African nations also have talent and resources. Let's work together as equals. Good to see India helping, but let's be humble about it.
Very happy to see this! India has always been the pharmacy of the developing world. From affordable medicines to vaccines, we are showing what we can do. Hope this partnership grows stronger and helps both sides. ❤️
This is impressive work by the Serum Institute. But I wonder - is India getting enough credit for the technology transfer from Oxford? Seems like the West is quick to claim innovation while India does the heavy lifting. Either way, lives are being saved, and that's what matters.
G < We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.