South Africa (SA) has advanced in vaccine manufacturing with the launch of a new Biovac Product Development Laboratory in Cape Town.
The launch marks a milestone in the country’s journey to develop its own vaccines.
For years, South Africa has imported active ingredients for vaccine production. Now, with the cutting-edge facility, the country will create medicines from start to finish.
The development will strengthen South Africa’s scientific muscles and boost Africa’s ability to respond to health crises.
BIOVAC VACCINE INNOVATION POTENTIAL TO DRIVE LOCAL GROWTH
The Biovac laboratory is equipped with advanced mRNA technology, which allows scientists to develop next-generation vaccines for diseases that affect Africans.
The Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Nomalungelo Gina, in a recent statement, called the opening “a historic milestone” for the continent.
She said the project shows how science, investment, and innovation can come together to protect public health while creating jobs and opportunities.
A CONTINENTAL BOOST FOR HEALTH SECURITY
SA’s vaccine manufacturing lab – Biovac, is backed by the Gates Foundation and the Industrial Development Corporation.
The facility will produce vaccines across multiple technology platforms from mRNA to bacterial and cell culture systems.
It also has space for testing, nanoparticle formulation, and large-scale vaccine evaluation.
Gina says this investment highlights scientific and economic progress.
Local manufacturing will reduce Africa’s reliance on imports, foster innovation, and stimulate the creation of intellectual property.
BUILDING AFRICA’S FUTURE IN SCIENCE
Biovac’s CEO, Dr Morena Makhoana, said the facility’s vaccine innovation will help Africa close its vaccine production gap.
With only about 1% of vaccines currently made locally, the African Union aims to reach 60% by 2040.
Makhoana believes that this development pushes the continent closer to that goal.
Gina also added that the laboratory represents hope and proof that Africa can lead in science, innovation, and vaccine manufacturing.
