On February 16, 2025, the African Union (AU), in collaboration with the Republic of Sierra Leone and key global partners, convened a high-level side event on immunization during the 38th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly. Under the theme “Reaffirming Africa’s Commitment to Immunization,” the event provided a platform to reflect on the progress of the Addis Ababa Declaration on Immunization (ADI), which seeks to ensure that all Africans, particularly children, have access to life-saving vaccines.

The event featured keynote addresses from H.E. Julius Maada Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, Ag. Regional Director of the World Health Organization (WHO) AFRO, and Dr. Etleve Kadili, Director of Supply Division at UNICEF, among other esteemed speakers. Discussions underscored the critical need for stronger political will, increased financial investment, and enhanced technical capacity to accelerate progress towards universal immunization coverage. Key priorities included addressing barriers to vaccine delivery, strengthening domestic resource mobilization, and advancing local vaccine production to improve Africa’s self-sufficiency in immunization efforts.

The event further highlighted the role of strategic partnerships in driving immunization success, showcasing the progress made despite persistent challenges. Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining immunization programs, recognizing their pivotal role in safeguarding public health, strengthening health systems, and advancing Africa’s socio-economic development. The call to action emphasized the need for collaborative, long-term investments to ensure that immunization remains a cornerstone of Africa’s public health agenda.

For more information, please see the media advisory: AU Media Advisory.