Kenya’s Vaccine Funding Challenge
Kenya is facing a significant public health challenge: the country is not yet ready to finance its childhood immunisation programme when donor funding from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, ends in 2029. A recent survey of senior county officials highlights critical gaps in financial preparedness, logistical planning, and infrastructure, raising concerns about the country’s readiness for this transition.
Most childhood vaccines in Kenya are procured by Gavi, which has provided essential funding for years. Initially scheduled to withdraw its support by 2027, Gavi extended the deadline to 2029 after negotiations with the government. However, the additional two years may not be sufficient to bridge the existing gaps.
Survey Highlights Unpreparedness
A study published in the Pan African Medical Journal surveyed 77 senior health officials across 15 counties. The findings revealed widespread concerns about the country’s ability to sustain immunisation programmes independently.
- Financial Gap: The annual cost of vaccines is approximately Sh36 billion, but the Kenyan government currently allocates only Sh4 billion, covering freight and distribution costs. Treasury has historically delayed disbursing co-financing payments to Gavi, contributing to stockouts of critical vaccines.
- Lack of Awareness: Many officials admitted they are unaware of the full cost of vaccines. One respondent from Tharaka Nithi county said, “We don’t even know the cost of vaccines, so today, if we are told to budget, we wouldn’t be able to provide the required funds.”
Logistical Challenges
Beyond financial constraints, logistical challenges threaten to strain the immunisation infrastructure:
- Cold Chain Management: Maintaining the temperature-sensitive supply chain for vaccines remains a challenge.
- Equipment Shortages: Counties already face shortages of syringes and other vital equipment.
- Procurement Delays: Officials anticipate more frequent stockouts when Gavi funding ends.
Potential Public Health Risks
If the funding and logistical gaps are not addressed, the consequences could be severe:
- Out-of-Pocket Costs: Families may have to pay for vaccines, limiting access for low-income households.
- Drop in Vaccination Rates: Reduced immunisation coverage could lead to outbreaks of preventable diseases, especially in marginalised and rural areas.
- Resurgence of Diseases: Diseases long controlled by vaccines could return, jeopardising public health.
Recommendations for Readiness
To prepare for vaccine independence, Kenya must:
- Integrate Vaccines into the National Budget: Allocate sufficient funds annually to cover vaccine procurement and distribution.
- Strengthen Infrastructure: Invest in cold chain management and procurement systems to ensure vaccine availability.
- Capacity Building: Train health officials on budgeting and logistical planning for immunisation programmes.
- Strategic Partnerships: Explore collaborations with private entities to share costs and enhance efficiency.
Conclusion
Kenya’s transition to self-funded immunisation programmes requires immediate and strategic action. Without robust financial and logistical frameworks, the exit of Gavi funding could result in devastating public health setbacks. The government must prioritise immunisation in its budget and address infrastructure gaps to safeguard the health of future generations.
