As the world observed World Immunization Week from 24-30 April 2025, the African Health Research, Innovation and Development Alliance (AHRIDA) reflected on the urgent need for vaccine autonomy in Africa. Currently, the continent relies on imports for 90% of its medicines and 99% of its vaccines, leaving it vulnerable to shifts in the global health landscape. AHRIDA’s call to action urges African governments to strengthen immunization coverage by 2030 through robust investment in local health R&D. It also calls on the global health community to address restrictive patent protections that hinder vaccine access for African populations.
