Johnson & Johnson has announced a historic deal that would allow an African company to manufacture and distribute its COVID-19 vaccine.
On March 8, 2022, Johnson & Johnson announced a landmark deal between Janssen Pharmaceuticals and South African manufacturer Aspen SA Operations, which will enable the first COVID-19 vaccine to be made by an African firm for Africans. The company’s mission is to increase COVID-19 vaccination rates throughout Africa.
Under the terms of agreement, Aspen will manufacture and provide the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine under its own brand name, making the vaccine available to the public sector in Africa, including all 55 Member States of the African Union. The agreement moves forward the goal to ensure equitable, global access to COVID-19 vaccines.
According to a press release, approximately 12% of people in Africa are fully vaccinated, which does not meet the World Health Organization’s target of 70% for all countries. Expanding global vaccination is crucial to reducing the risk of a new SARS-CoV-2 variant emerging.
“With the conclusion of this agreement, our vision for Africa’s own vaccine has become a reality,” said Stephen Saad, Aspen Group chief executive, in a press release. “This has been achieved through tremendous teamwork and collaboration between Johnson & Johnson and Aspen. Through this agreement and their earlier actions, Johnson & Johnson has demonstrated its commitment to our continent. Initially by choosing Aspen, located in Africa, as a core manufacturing partner, and then by showing resolve and dedication to a technical transfer process during the most stringent lockdown periods of the COVID outbreak.”
