Kigali, 15 October 2025 — German biotechnology company BioNTech SE has obtained a $110 million financing package from the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Commission to support the expansion of its mRNA vaccine plant in Rwanda. The Kigali facility, first inaugurated in 2023 with modular “BioNTainer” units, is designed to strengthen Africa’s vaccine self‑sufficiency and reduce reliance on imports.
The financing package includes a €35 million grant from the European Commission and up to €60 million in loans from the EIB, reflecting Europe’s commitment to bolstering Africa’s health security.
Strategic Importance
- First of its kind: The Kigali site is expected to become Africa’s first commercial mRNA vaccine facility, capable of producing vaccines for malaria, tuberculosis, HIV, and mpox, in addition to COVID‑19.
- Addressing supply gaps: Currently, Africa produces only about 1% of the vaccines it consumes, leaving the continent vulnerable to global supply shocks.
- Continental goals: The project aligns with the African Union’s target of producing 60% of vaccines used in Africa by 2040, a major leap toward health sovereignty.
Broader Context
BioNTech, best known for co‑developing the first approved COVID‑19 mRNA vaccine with Pfizer, has positioned the Rwanda facility as a cornerstone of its long‑term strategy to expand vaccine access in low‑ and middle‑income countries. The World Health Organization has welcomed the initiative as a model for regionalized vaccine manufacturing.
Outlook
With the new financing, BioNTech plans to accelerate construction and scale‑up of the Kigali plant, ensuring it can transition from pilot production to full commercial output in the coming years. Once operational, the facility is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening Africa’s resilience against future pandemics and endemic diseases.
In summary, the $110 million investment marks a decisive step toward reshaping Africa’s vaccine landscape, positioning Rwanda as a hub for cutting‑edge biotechnology and advancing the continent’s long‑term health security.
Sources: European Investment Bank; European Commission; BioNTech SE; WHO.
