The National Vaccine Institute (NVI) has reiterated Ghana’s commitment to becoming a hub for pharmaceutical self-reliance during the Ministerial Conference on Local Production of Medicines and Other Health Technologies, held in Algiers from November 27–28, 2025.
The Institute was represented by Ms. Naana Afrakoma Yawson, Ag. Director for Policy Planning, Monitoring & Evaluation, who also served as a featured panelist at a high-level side event organized by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).
Advancing Technology Transfer in Africa During the UNIDO session, titled “Strengthening Technology Transfer and Investment Promotion for Sustainable Pharmaceutical Manufacturing in Africa,” global experts convened to discuss the roadmap for boosting the continent's production capabilities.
Speaking on behalf of the NVI, Ms. Yawson highlighted the critical reforms Ghana is currently undertaking to prepare the landscape for vaccine and pharmaceutical manufacturing. She outlined key initiatives, including regulatory strengthening, the alignment of industrial incentives, and the development of an Advanced Purchase Commitment (APC) framework to guarantee market access for local manufacturers.
Ms. Yawson emphasized that for Africa to grow, reliance must be placed on strong institutions, harmonized regulations, and technology-transfer partnerships that prioritize local skill building and research.
Key Takeaways for Ghana’s Industry The conference highlighted the new UNIDO Technology Transfer Guidelines, from which the NVI has drawn three strategic lessons to guide its operations:
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Long-Term Partnership: Technology transfer must be viewed not as a one-off transaction, but as a long-term institutional partnership involving training, problem-solving, and co-development.
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National Coordination: A central guiding institution is essential to unite regulators, industry, research, and investors. The NVI is positioned to serve as this primary platform for Ghana.
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Performance-Based Incentives: Clear incentives that link investment and regulatory processes to transfer results are crucial for attracting global manufacturers and increasing credibility.
The NVI remains dedicated to upholding these principles to foster a competitive regional health sector and ensure the sustainable growth of Ghana’s vaccine industry.