The government of Niger has launched the African Vaccine Pool, a regional vaccine sharing facility designed to accelerate the development and distribution of vaccines in Africa. With an initial funding of $23.5 million, the program will support the strengthening of laboratories, disease surveillance and training for healthcare personnel across the country.

Niger is one of 42 districts chosen as priority targets for the program, which aims to improve the capacity of laboratory networks, enhance early warning systems, build skilled healthcare staff, organize emergency response operations and mobilize necessary resources. The initiative will be implemented with support from international partners including the African Development Bank.

The African Vaccine Pool is part of a broader effort by Niger and other regional governments to boost vaccine development and distribution across Africa. By strengthening laboratory capacity and disease surveillance systems, the program aims to improve the country’s ability to respond quickly to emerging health threats.