COVAX: ensuring global equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines
The largest vaccine supply operation ever began in February 2021 – and UNICEF led it on behalf of COVAX.
COVAX closed 31 December 2023 having delivered nearly 2 billion doses of vaccines to 146 economies, and averted an estimated 2.7 million deaths in AMC lower-income participating economies.
How?
Through COVAX – led by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, WHO and CEPI – UNICEF worked with manufacturers and partners on the procurement of COVID-19 vaccine doses, as well as freight, logistics, storage and rollout in countries. In collaboration with the PAHO Revolving Fund, we led the procurement and delivery for low and middle-income countries while also supporting upper middle-income and high-income nations to access vaccines.
UNICEF also procured and transported immunization supplies such as syringes, safety boxes for their disposal, and cold chain equipment such as vaccine refrigerators and freezers. This formed a major part of UNICEF’s overall COVID-19 response, which included the delivery of diagnostics, therapeutics, personal protective equipment (PPE) and other essential items.
Recognizing the urgency of turning vaccines into vaccinations, UNICEF is collaborating with WHO and Gavi through the COVID-19 Vaccine Delivery Partnership (CoVDP). The partnership assists low- and middle-income countries facing challenges to achieve vaccination targets through financial assistance and technical support.
When did COVAX begin?
UNICEF started organizing the international transport of COVID-19 vaccines for COVAX in February 2021. COVAX continues to deliver vaccines to countries and territories around the world, with the aim of protecting frontline health care and social workers, as well as high-risk and vulnerable groups.
Why UNICEF?
As the largest single vaccine buyer in the world, UNICEF has a unique and longstanding expertise in procurement and logistics to help children in need. We are the main procurement partner of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and have helped reach more than 760 million children with life-saving vaccines over the last 20 years, preventing more than 13 million deaths.
