Kenya Starts a Technology Transfer Initiative to Increase Regional Vaccine Production

Posted on : Friday , 6th March 2026

The WHO-MPP mRNA Technology Transfer Project, a significant step toward improved vaccine production and enhanced health sovereignty, was formally launched in Nairobi, Kenya.

With the inauguration, Kenya becomes one of just five African nations chosen to take part in the WHO-MPP Program, demonstrating the country's expanding potential and aspirations in biomanufacturing.

According to the Kenya BioVax Institute, the program's goal is to provide essential mRNA technology and knowledge to a few low- and middle-income nations so that indigenous vaccines can be produced.

Speaking at the ceremony, officials underlined that the achievement shows Kenya's dedication to developing a sustainable and independent biomanufacturing capability that can handle present and future health crises.

Kenya BioVax Institute will gain complete mRNA manufacturing expertise, from research and development to mass production, through the technology transfer agreement.

The initiative is anticipated to improve infrastructure, bolster local technical competence and create a scalable platform for the domestic production of vaccinations and treatments.

In order to anchor the program's success, Board Chairman Dr. Charles Githinji emphasized the significance of strong governance structures, regulatory excellence and long-term sustainability foundations.

Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga urged Kenyan researchers and scientists to use the mRNA platform for purposes other than COVID-19 vaccines, concentrating on regional priority diseases and getting ready for new threats to health worldwide.

Kenya is positioned under the program as a reliable regional center for cutting-edge biopharmaceutical development.

The nation hopes to improve health security and advance equal access to life-saving technology throughout Africa by lowering dependency on imported vaccinations and boosting domestic manufacturing.

According to the Kenya BioVax Institute, the project is revolutionary, positioning Kenya as a regional center for mRNA production and bolstering the country's leadership in health innovation and pandemic preparedness.

The World Health Organization Kenya, Medicines Patent Pool, Kenya BioVax Institute, Kenya Medical Research Institute, the Pharmacy and Poisons Board, development partners and commercial sector stakeholders, including Thermo Fisher Scientific, were among the organizations represented at the inaugural ceremony.