Strengthening Global Health Through Collaboration: UPA and IVI Sign Memorandum of Understanding
The Egyptian Vaccine Manufacturers Alliance (EVMA) is pleased to announce a significant stride in enhancing Egypt’s healthcare capabilities and global health initiatives. The Egyptian Authority for Unified Procurement, Medical Supply and Medical Technology Management (UPA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the International Vaccine Institute (IVI). This non-binding MOU sets the framework for a collaborative relationship aimed at strengthening global health through human capital development, technology transfer, joint resource mobilization, and regional capacity building.
The International Vaccine Institute (IVI), an autonomous not-for-profit international organization established in 1997 by the United Nations Development Program, is exclusively dedicated to vaccine research and development in developing countries to accelerate the availability of needed vaccines. The UPA, a public economic authority established under Law No. 151 of 2019, manages and executes procurement processes for pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, and human medical appliances for all governmental bodies and public authorities in Egypt. The UPA’s core objective is to ensure equitable, timely, and sustainable access to safe, effective, and quality-assured medicinal and health products across the country, committed to a robust, transparent, and efficient supply chain.
Both Parties share a common vision of fostering sustainable partnerships, leveraging complementary expertise, and promoting equitable access to health technologies. This MOU outlines several key areas of cooperation:
- Human Capital Development and Capacity Building: This includes the joint implementation of training programs and technical workshops, as well as support for institutional and workforce capacity strengthening.
- Technology Transfer Support: The MOU facilitates knowledge and technology exchange and supports the scale-up and localization of relevant technologies.
- Resource Mobilization through Joint Grant Applications: The parties will jointly identify funding opportunities and co-develop and submit grant proposals to secure financial resources.
- Support for Pooled Procurement Mechanisms: This involves exploring opportunities to enhance pooled procurement systems and promoting equitable access to essential public health commodities.
- Support to Regional Capacity and Capability Networks: The collaboration aims to strengthen regional manufacturing and research networks and provide strategic input and technical assistance to regional platform technologies.
While the MOU is largely non-binding, certain provisions, such as confidentiality, limitation of liability, governing law, dispute resolution, intellectual property, and force majeure clauses, are legally binding. The MOU has an initial term of five years from the effective date of the last signature, unless terminated sooner.
This collaboration between UPA and IVI signifies a strategic alignment to advance public health goals, particularly in vaccine development and accessibility. Through these joint efforts, Egypt is poised to further enhance its capabilities in vaccine manufacturing and contribute significantly to global health security.
