Researchers in South Africa have launched clinical trials for the first vaccine developed entirely in the country.
This is the first time in over 50 years that a vaccine is being developed end-to-end entirely within South Africa, with no reliance on importing the active pharmaceutical ingredient.
The clinical trials began in October 2025 at the University of the Witwatersrand and initially focus on adults to test the vaccine’s safety; later stages will expand the study to more sites and compare effectiveness to existing vaccines
The project is supported by major international foundations, including the Gates Foundation, Open Philanthropy, Wellcome Trust, and ELMA Vaccines & Immunization Foundation.
Pending successful results, the vaccine could be approved for use in Africa by 2028 and globally by 2028/2029.
South Africa’s push for local vaccine innovation aligns with the African Union’s target for the continent to domestically produce 60% of its vaccines by 2030
The vaccine is crucial amid recurring cholera outbreaks and global shortages of cholera vaccines, aiming to provide accessible and affordable protection for African communities.
