Government to capacitate BVI as vaccine hub

Botswana Vaccine Institute (BVI) has been praised for its pioneering work in veterinary science, innovation and disease control. Speaking during a tour of the BVI facilities, Vice President Ndaba Gaolathe commended BVI for its commitment to advancing animal health, highlighting its role in controlling the spread of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and contributing to food security. He emphasised the need for BVI to remain a global centre of excellence for infectious disease control, stating that the government’s priority was to capacitate and resource the institute to position Botswana as a vaccine-producing powerhouse.

BVI has proven itself as a leading producer of animal medicines, with potential to become a leading exporter across Africa. He said the institute’s strict adherence to international vaccine standards of the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), together with a sound quality management system and customer-centred approach, enabled it to break into international markets,a development he described as commendable. “From its humble beginnings, the BVI of today is a company that has grown in leaps and bounds and has positioned itself as a force to be reckoned with in the fight to unlock Africa’s vast livestock potential by producing livestock disease vaccines that for many years have contributed towards food production,” he said.

Mr Gaolathe further said BVI had expanded its mandate to transform into a national, regional and global player providing sustainable animal health solutions, and that it takes pride in leading efforts to unlock Africa’s livestock potential by preventing diseases that have long hampered growth in the sector. Meanwhile, BVI Chief Executive Officer Mr Andrew Madeswi said the institute remained steadfast in its commitment to the highest standards of quality, safety and regulatory compliance in pharmaceutical manufacturing, both regionally and internationally. “As part of our ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence, Botswana Vaccine Institute is excited to introduce the new look and feel of our vaccine product labels. This initiative aims to enhance brand recognition, improve clarity and ensure consistency across all our product lines,” he said.