Building Local Biomanufacturing Capacity in South Africa

This case study examines the strategic evolution of the Biovac Institute, a South African biopharmaceutical company, from a vaccine supplier to a vaccine manufacturer and innovator. It outlines the processes, partnerships, and technology transfers that have facilitated Biovac's development over time. The report highlights the urgent need for African nations to enhance their vaccine manufacturing capabilities, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which exposed significant gaps in local production. It discusses the role of the African Union and the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in forming the Partnership for African Vaccine Manufacturing, aimed at increasing local vaccine production to meet 60% of Africa's needs by 2040. Additionally, the case study presents lessons learned from Biovac's experience, emphasizing the importance of public policies and collaborative efforts in building sustainable manufacturing capacity for biologics across Africa and other developing regions.