The African Union (AU) is set to receive 400 million doses of Johnson&Johnson’s single-shot COVID-19 vaccine following the successful conclusion of the agreement through the African Vaccine Acquisition Trust (AVAT). This was made known in a statement by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) on Monday, saying that an additional 180 million doses of the single-shot vaccine could be purchased when the successful purchase agreement. The statement said the vaccine will be made available across African countries within 18 months through the African Medical Supplies Platform (AMSP).
Afreximbank President, Prof. Benedict Oramah lauded the deal, adding that the bank is honoured for the opportunity given by the AU to facilitate the agreement with Johnson and Johnson under the AVATT.
“This financing will support Intra-African trade and we have already commenced engagement with our financial partners to secure the additional funding that would support procurement if Africa decides to procure the additional 180 million doses,” he said.
