UNICEF Ghana has commended the Government of Ghana for fully meeting its 2025 co-financing obligation of USD 24.5 million toward vaccine procurement, a move that reinforces the country’s commitment to child health and strengthens its national immunisation programme.
The timely payment will ensure continued access to essential vaccines, reduce the risk of stockouts, and support the introduction of new vaccines; safeguarding the health of millions of Ghanaian children. UNICEF described the move as a critical milestone in Ghana’s return to pre-pandemic performance levels after facing delays due to economic strains brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Although post-COVID economic pressures led to delays in payments and interrupted regular vaccine availability and ultimately vaccination coverage, this full payment reflects a commendable prioritization of child health,” said Osama Makkawi Khogali, UNICEF Representative in Ghana. “By investing in immunization, the Government is ensuring that every Ghanaian child; regardless of location, is protected from vaccine-preventable diseases.”
Ghana had consistently met its vaccine financing obligations until 2022, when rising co-financing requirements, reduced fiscal space, and the country’s transition from Gavi support created financial challenges. The recent full payment signifies renewed government commitment under Ghana’s Transition Roadmap: Towards Self-financing of Immunisation Services.
UNICEF underscored that completing the co-financing obligation is not only vital for maintaining herd immunity and avoiding vaccine shortages, but also for strengthening the overall health system.
The organisation also called for continued efforts to boost domestic vaccine financing as development aid continues to decline.
“Investing in vaccines offers one of the highest returns in public health, preventing disease is far more cost-effective than treating it,” UNICEF added, encouraging sustained investment to build a healthier and more resilient generation.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
