Innovative health financing mechanisms: the case of Africa’s unified approach to vaccine acquisition
Chiamaka P. Ojiako
Abstract
Key messages Long before the COVID-19 pandemic, Africa has been grappling with developing a sustainable financing model for financing vaccine procurement and rather than taking ownership the leadership outsourced their responsibility by relying on donor-driven funding models. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Africa took the initiative by designing and implementing innovative financing mechanisms underpinned by principles of solidarity and togetherness; 'the whole of Africa approach'. Although the financing models adopted by African institutions to procure the COVID-19 vaccines were not exactly novel, the autonomy and independence they had in sourcing and managing the funds reduced cost, fragmentation and the unpredictability of external aid. Africa's institution-driven approach, strategic collaborations, high political engagement and collective finance management are noteworthy for financing other vaccines and possibly addressing other health systems building blocks in Africa, including Africa's vision of vaccine self-reliance.