Kenya To Take Charge of Vaccine Funds Under New Global Health Financing Model

By Robai Ludenyi

Kenya is set to gain greater control over how it finances and manages vaccines following a major shift in funding by Gavi, the global vaccine alliance. The new approach will see funds sent directly to the country, allowing health authorities to plan, purchase, and distribute vaccines with more independence than before.

Under the previous system, Gavi largely handled procurement and payment processes on behalf of beneficiary countries. However, the updated model now places responsibility in the hands of national governments. For Kenya, this marks a significant turning point in how its immunisation programme is run.

The change will give the country more flexibility to respond to its specific needs. Instead of waiting for external processes, Kenya will be able to decide which vaccines to prioritise, when to procure them, and how to distribute them across counties. This is expected to improve

The government will now be required to strengthen its financial management systems to ensure accountability and proper use of the funds. Transparency will be critical, especially as the amounts involved are substantial and directly impact public health.

this move is part of a broader effort to encourage countries to take ownership of their healthcare systems. By managing their own vaccine budgets, nations like Kenya are expected to build stronger institutions and reduce long-term dependence on donor support.

However, some stakeholders have raised concerns about the transition. Questions remain about whether existing systems are fully prepared to handle the new responsibilities without disruptions. Any missteps could affect vaccine availability, especially for vulnerable groups such as children who rely on routine immunisation programmes.

If implemented successfully, the new funding model could transform how vaccines are delivered in Kenya. It offers an opportunity to build a more responsive and locally driven system that meets the needs of the population while maintaining high standards of accountability.

The coming months will be crucial as Kenya begins to operate under this new arrangement. But how well will the country manages the transition? and can it deliver vaccines efficiently, reliably, and equitably to all who need them.

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