EU invests €32m into Ghana’s health sector, boosts vaccine manufacturing, pharmaceutical industry

The European Union (EU) has launched a €32 million Special Measure on Manufacturing and Access to Vaccines, Medicines, and Health Technologies in Africa (MAV+).

The initiative, unveiled during the Ghana-EU Business Forum, aims to develop vaccine manufacturing and the pharmaceutical industry in Ghana.

The investment is designed to create a robust ecosystem in Ghana capable of producing a skilled workforce, strengthening research and development capacities, and establishing necessary regulatory systems.

The EU will continue its support for the Food and Drugs Authority, facilitate technology transfer, and build partnerships for vaccine and pharmaceutical production.

Deputy Director General of the Directorate General of the European Commission, Madam Myriam Ferran pledged the EU’s committment to supporting Ghana’s development goals, adding that “this investment in vaccine manufacturing and pharma is a testament to our partnership. This programme will not only enhance Ghana’s healthcare sector but also contribute to the growth of the country’s economy.”

Presidential Advisor on Health, Dr. Anthony Nsiah-Asare expressed gratitude, saying, “we are working together with the EU from the beginning of the President’s vision to make Ghana a regional vaccine manufacturing hub. A big thank you to the EU for the incredible close collaboration.”

The MAV+ initiative complements the EU’s Joint Programming for 2021-2027, reflecting the EU’s ability to adapt to emerging needs and its commitment to supporting Ghana’s high-priority political goals. Since 2022, the EU has been supporting vaccine manufacturing at both private and public levels in Ghana. Alongside the German Development Cooperation, the EU launched a €3.1 million project to enhance the capacity of Ghana’s Food and Drugs Authority, ensuring vaccines produced locally meet quality standards for regional and global markets.

In 2023, the European Investment Bank provided a €5 million grant to DEK Vaccines Ltd to support the construction of a fill-and-finish vaccine manufacturing facility in the Greater Accra region. This seed financing marks another step toward making Ghana a central player in regional vaccine production.