Biontech inaugurates first mRNA plant in Africa
Africa is dependent on imports of vaccines. Only one percent of the required vaccines are produced on the continent. This could soon change. Following a test phase, commercial production is set to start at a Biontech plant in Rwanda next year.
Biontech is making progress in setting up production for mRNA vaccines in Africa and has inaugurated its Rwandan site in the capital Kigali. The production facility there could become the first commercial-scale mRNA production plant on the African continent, the Mainz-based biotech company announced.
The first production unit has now been set up, all buildings are to be completed next year and the training of specialist staff will begin, with test production due to start in 2025. At the event, Biontech CEO Ugur Sahin presented the facility in the presence of prominent guests from Africa and Europe.
Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock emphasized the planned vaccine factory of the Mainz-based pharmaceutical company Biontech in the capital of Rwanda as a sign of functioning African-European cooperation. "At a time when many are talking about deepening divisions in world politics, we are showing today what African-European cooperation can achieve," said the Green politician.
"We are showing that together we can build a stronger global health system and that together we can overcome global crises," said Baerbock. The minister conceded that the world had failed to provide vaccines quickly and fairly to all people around the globe during the pandemic. "We cannot undo past mistakes," she said, "but together we can learn and build a better future."
Africa still imports 99 percent of its vaccines
Biontech had announced in 2021 that it was planning to set up mRNA vaccine production in Africa. Production was originally scheduled to start this year. The production facility will initially be equipped with two special containers in which the production of messenger RNA (mRNA) - on which the company's Covid-19 vaccine was based - and the production of ready-to-fill batches of the formulated active ingredient will be possible.
According to Biontech, it has fully financed the production facility itself to date and the Group expects to invest a total of 150 million dollars. If development and approval are successful, Biontech vaccines against tuberculosis, malaria, HIV and Mpox could one day be produced there. Up to 50 million doses could be produced in Kigali every year. Africa still imports 99 percent of its vaccines.
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The Biontech plant in Rwanda, inaugurated this year, aims to become the first commercial-scale mRNA production facility in Africa, potentially reducing Africa's dependence on vaccine imports. Despite Biontech's initiative, Africa continues to import 99% of its vaccines, underscoring the need for increased local production.
Source: www.ntv.de
