UNICEF hails Ghana’s $24.5m vaccine payment milestone

UNICEF Ghana has commended the Government of Ghana for fulfilling its 2025 co-financing obligation of USD 24.5 million for vaccines.

This timely payment not only helps to sustain progress in protecting children’s health but also significantly reduces the risk of vaccine shortages. It stands as a strong indication of the government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the national immunization programme.

Until 2022, Ghana consistently met its vaccine financing obligations. However, economic challenges following the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with increased co-financing demands and limited fiscal space due to the country’s transition from Gavi support, led to delays.

The completion of the 2025 payment marks a major step in restoring Ghana’s pre-pandemic financing performance.

Meeting this obligation is crucial for ensuring a steady vaccine supply, maintaining herd immunity, and supporting the introduction of new vaccines.

It also contributes to strengthening the broader healthcare system and safeguarding the health and survival of Ghanaian children.

“I am proud to stand with the Government of Ghana in celebrating this important milestone,” said Osama Makkawi Khogali, UNICEF Representative in Ghana. “Although post-COVID economic pressures led to delays in payments and interrupted regular vaccine availability and ultimately vaccination coverage, this full payment reflects a commendable prioritization of child health. By investing in immunization, the Government is ensuring that every Ghanaian child regardless of location is protected from vaccine-preventable diseases.”

UNICEF has welcomed Ghana’s renewed commitment to immunization and urges continued efforts to strengthen domestic vaccine financing—especially in light of decreasing development aid.

This approach aligns with Ghana’s Transition Roadmap: Towards Self-financing of Immunisation Services.