Luanda: The Global Alliance for Vaccines (Gavi) has made an additional 500 million doses of vaccines available to Angola, Health Minister Slvia Lutucuta announced after a meeting with Gavi's CEO, S¡nia Nishtar.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the minister emphasized the importance of the visit for strengthening cooperation in immunization efforts. She highlighted the long-standing relationship with Gavi, which has directly financed Angola's Expanded Immunization Program (EPI) for 14 years. Despite Angola's transition to middle-income status in 2017, Gavi has continued its support in areas such as emergency response, training, and operational assistance.
Minister Lutucuta noted that Angola's new classification allows it to receive direct support for vaccine acquisition, an essential measure for the country's ongoing co-financing of its national program. She stressed the importance of Dr. S¡nia Nishtar's visit, as it reinforces the strategic relationship at a time when Gavi is considering Angola a high-impact country once again.
Acknowledging President Joo Louren§o's recognition by Gavi as a "Vaccination Champion," Lutucuta underscored the strengthened partnership during Angola's presidency of the African Union. She also pointed out Gavi's support in responding to emergencies, such as providing cholera vaccines and launching polio campaigns in vulnerable areas.
Furthermore, the minister expressed support for introducing the HPV vaccine to prevent cervical cancer, a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Angolan women. She urged families, particularly adolescent girls, to get vaccinated.
Gavi CEO S¡nia Nishtar reaffirmed the organization's commitment to Angola, citing it as a priority country in the new support cycle. She commended the Angolan government's dedication to immunization and expressed enthusiasm about beginning a new chapter in their partnership.
