Moderna suspends plans to build plant in Kenya as vaccine demand declines » Capital News

Nairobi, Kenya, Apr 12 –  Moderna has paused plans to construct a Messenger RNA (mRNA) manufacturing facility in Kenya due to post-pandemic decline in demand for COVID-19 vaccines.

According to the company, the decline in demand for COVID-19 vaccines since the peak of the pandemic has made the project economically unviable. 

“Moderna has not received any vaccine orders for Africa since 2022 and has faced the cancellation of previous orders, resulting in more than $1 billion in losses and write-downs,” it noted in statement.

Despite facing significant losses from cancelled orders, Moderna stated that remains committed to ensuring fair access to its COVID-19 vaccine in Africa through its global manufacturing network. 

Additionally, it indicated that is actively developing vaccines for diseases like HIV and malaria that disproportionately affect the continent. 

“These initiatives are part of our broader commitment to help address global health challenges through our innovative mRNA technology. However, these investigational vaccines are at an early development stage,” the statement read.

Moderna believes it is prudent to pause the construction of the Kenyan facility to better align with evolving healthcare needs and vaccine demand in Africa. 

The company acknowledges the support from the US and Kenyan governments and looks forward to future discussions on supporting Kenya’s healthcare system and advancing mRNA vaccines and therapeutics for African needs.

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