Page 28 - ISSUE 29

28 News

Vaccine Manufacturing Plant to be

established in Botswana

A proposed Botswana vaccine
plant has been commissioned to
open in 2026. This is part of a push
by African countries to have more
vaccines produced on the continent
after an initial scramble for Covid-19
inoculations left the continent
struggling to secure supplies.

Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong ,a South
African-American transplant surgeon,
billionaire businessman, bioscientist,
and media proprietor is the inventor
of the drug Abraxane, which became
known for its efficacy against lung,
breast, and pancreatic cancer. He is
also the founder of NantWorks, a
network of healthcare, biotech, and
artificial intelligence startups.
Botswana President Masisi being presented the vaccine
Nant works company will come under by Dr Patrick Soon-Shiong
the auspices of Nant Botswana.
Speaking at the launch the Minister
of Health abd Wellness Honourable be indebted to you for this live saving
Minister Dr Edwin Dikoloti said this Botswana was not an exception from decision. It is a truly big step in helping
day marks a new level in our scientific this global imbalance that has so far left us address medical supply imbalances
development. many families broken and deceased.At a already alluded to. This development
time when the country was in dire need will indeed help us respond to other
It marked the commencement of a new of COVID-19 vaccines, there were very public health emergencies that may
pharmaceutical chapter in Botswana. little vaccine doses availed, despite the arise.”the Minister said.
“ It signifies a new technological country’s exhaustive efforts in securing Many Batswana scientists and
breakthrough that will see us, as not just and procuring these vaccines. researchers including those from the
a consumer, but also a manufacturer of health ministry will benefit from the
vaccines and other medications that will “Not only will their coming help us in the skills that Nant Botswana brings.
come out of this magnificent project. fight against COVID-19 but also in our

other many challenges like in the fight Honorable Edwin concluded by thanking
Director of Ceremonies, Your Excellency against cancer. We are truly thankful to the President and Nant Works founder
the President, developing countries you Dr Soon-Shiong. We cannot thank making this opportunity possible. “we
like Botswana have always experienced you enough for this great decision to set look forward to this great project and
insufficient supply of medical commodities up in our country. can’t wait to see it take off.
and other goods and services necessary
for the improvement of the lives of their The people of Botswana will forever
people. “he said.

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