The first 100% African vaccine factory was started in South Africa

Published: 20/01/2022 – 05:10

With our correspondent in Johannesburg, Roman song

An investment of approximately 170 million euros (3 billion rand) over the years was made by billionaire Patrick Soon-shyong, who made his fortune in biotechnology. The entrepreneur was born in the South African city of Port-Elizabeth, and he wanted to invest in his own country to put an end to the vaccine inequality manifested by the epidemic. He describes the situation. ” Health racism », Like President Cyril Ramaphosa.

⁇ We have developed a new vaccine, the second generation vaccine, which is manufactured in Africa, and we want to export it worldwide. Our goal is to create a sustainable industry, not just a product, but a biotechnology sector of the 21st century “, He announced.

On his side, President Cyril Ramaphosa enjoys this moment as a victory. The South African president described the launch. ” A milestone in Africa’s march towards health, progress and prosperity “He has been the continent’s spokesman in condemning vaccine inequality since the outbreak began.” Today we are expressing our progress towards a self-sufficient continent and we should be proud of what we have achieved. The chains of colonialism are breaking little by little. ⁇

South Africa should be the first step in the continental expansion of Patrick Soon-shong’s factories. Next places: Botswana, Ghana, Kenya and Uganda. Goal: One billion doses per year by 2025. Vaccines against Govt-19, but also against HIV, tuberculosis and cancer, thanks to the technological transfer made by Patrick Soon-shyong’s companies.