Mpharma CEO Gregory Rockson on why he believes vaccine rollouts should be privatised

Less than 2% of the population in Africa have been vaccinated so far, in stark contrast to the more than 60% vaccination rate in some major economies. The slow vaccine rollout is attributed to various factors, including supply issues and lack of infrastructure. Could privatization of vaccine rollout speed up access across the continent? CNBC Africa interviewed Gregory Rockson, CEO of Mpharma, to delve into this topic. Rockson believes that while privatization may not immediately increase vaccine supply, it could play a vital role in medium to long-term vaccination efforts. In the short term, the primary challenge is the supply problem, not financial constraints. However, Rockson emphasizes that privatization could bridge the financial gaps that African countries will face in the future, especially if COVID-19 vaccination becomes endemic. He highlights the need for a sustainable financing plan to ensure equitable access to vaccines without burdening the government financially. Rockson describes Mpharma's employer-led vaccination program, which aims to alleviate the financial strain on the government by having private sector employers fund doses for their employees in collaboration with the government. This innovative model not only safeguards workforce health but also supports the government in procuring vaccines efficiently. Rockson envisions a future where private sector participation supplements government efforts in vaccine distribution and administration, ultimately enhancing vaccination coverage in Africa.