KEMRI Chair Dr. Abdullai Ali Calls for Funding and Tech-Driven Vaccine Delivery
Dr. Abdullai Ali, Chairman of the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), has called for urgent collaboration, adequate funding, and the use of technology-backed processes to strengthen sustainable vaccine manufacturing and delivery in Kenya and the region.
Speaking during the 16th KASH Conference, Dr. Ali emphasized that vaccine manufacturing cannot succeed in isolation and urged stakeholders across the health sector to work together and focus on the basics first
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“Let us unlock funding, work with key stakeholders, and adopt good processes supported by technology,” Dr. Ali said, stressing that fragmented efforts continue to undermine progress in vaccine access.
He challenged players in the vaccine sector—manufacturers, suppliers, government agencies, and development partners—to prioritize practical and efficient mechanisms for supplying and delivering vaccines to those who need them most.
According to Dr. Ali, strengthening distribution systems and establishing reliable vaccine delivery centers is just as critical as expanding manufacturing capacity, noting that vaccines are only effective when they reach communities in a timely and equitable manner.
The remarks come amid growing discussions on vaccine self-reliance and health security, with experts calling for stronger coordination between research institutions, policymakers, and industry players.
The KASH Conference brings together health professionals, researchers, policymakers, and partners to deliberate on sustainable solutions for improving health outcomes across Kenya and Africa.