- Up to €95 million in financing will support BioNTech's mRNA facility in Kigali, Rwanda.
- The facility will produce vaccines for diseases like malaria, tuberculosis, HIV, and mpox.
- BioNTech's site could become Africa's first commercial mRNA vaccine facility.
- The project aligns with the African Union's goal to produce 60% of vaccines locally by 2040.
Investment and Collaboration
The European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Commission (EC) are collaborating with BioNTech to establish an mRNA vaccine manufacturing facility in Kigali, Rwanda. The project is supported by up to €95 million in blended financing, including a €35 million grant from the EC and a potential €60 million loan from the EIB.
Vaccine Production Goals
The facility aims to produce mRNA vaccines for diseases prevalent in Africa, such as malaria, tuberculosis, HIV, and mpox, contingent on successful development and approval. BioNTech's "BioNTainers," modular units for flexible vaccine production, will be utilized to adapt to local needs.
Strategic Objectives
This initiative supports the African Union's goal for the continent to produce 60% of its vaccines by 2040. The Kigali site could become the first commercial mRNA vaccine facility in Africa, enhancing the continent's capacity to address public health challenges independently.
Partnerships and Support
The project is a result of collaboration between BioNTech, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), and Team Europe partners. CEPI's support, including a grant of up to €130 million, ensures that vaccines produced at the Kigali site will be accessible and affordable.
