Africa’s Pandemic Preparedness at a Crossroads: Equity in Pathogen Sharing

As the world works toward a global pandemic treaty, African countries including Kenya, face a critical test of health equity. Advocates warn that without strong, binding provisions in the Pathogens Access and Benefit-Sharing (PABS) Annex, Africa risks repeating the vaccine and treatment inequities seen during COVID-19.

The PABS system is designed to ensure countries rapidly share pathogens with pandemic potential and their genetic sequences while guaranteeing fair access to vaccines, diagnostics, and treatments derived from them. Health experts stress that voluntary commitments are not enough. African negotiators are pushing for legally binding measures that secure timely and equitable access to pandemic-related health technologies.

“The Pandemic Agreement cannot be ratified without this Annex. Getting it right is in every country’s interest,” said Diana Tibesigwa, AHF’s Regional Advocacy and Policy Manager.

The outcome of these negotiations could also shape Africa’s long-term pharmaceutical ambitions. Kenya, for instance, is expanding local manufacturing capacity, aiming to produce 50 percent of its medicines domestically. A strong PABS framework could link regulatory progress with actual access, enabling local production to meet regional needs.

Africa accounts for roughly 25 percent of global vaccine demand but only a fraction of the market supply, highlighting the continent’s reliance on imports. Binding provisions on technology transfer and non-exclusive licensing would help translate African scientific contributions into real-world health outcomes, supporting SAA and ICASA’s expanded focus beyond HIV to include TB, Malaria, and other public health priorities.

With negotiations resuming in Geneva and a May 2026 deadline at the World Health Assembly, the decisions made now will influence Africa’s health sovereignty for years to come. Strengthening equitable access mechanisms is not just ethical, it’s essential for building resilient health systems and ensuring the continent can respond effectively to future pandemics.

Source: The Star, Kenya