In Quotes: African Leaders on the ‘Immunize Africa 2020’ Declaration

Cross-posted from ACTION.org

Last week African leaders publicly recognized the importance of vaccines, pledging their support for increased investment in the health of Africa’s next generation.

In a declaration launched at the World Economic Forum for Africa in Nigeria, Africa’s leaders pledged to join together to make smart investments in the growth and development of the African continent, emphasizing their continued dedication to supporting the work of the GAVI Alliance. The Alliance is a public-private partnership working to bring vaccines to the world's poorest children. Read the declaration and check out the inspiring quotes below from leaders from around Africa.

President John Dramani Mahama of the Republic of Ghana 

“We are committed to ensuring that vaccine programmes in Ghana will be sustainable and that our children will be protected from potentially fatal diseases.”

President Macky Sall of the Republic of Senegal 

“As leaders of this dynamic continent, we will ensure that our children have access to the best, most sustainable technologies to provide them with the best possible start in life.”

President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of the Republic of Liberia

“As leaders, responsibilities to our citizens start with saving the lives of children and giving them a decent start in life. I am proud to stand by this declaration; this represents African leadership at its best.”

President Jakaya Kikwete of the United Republic of Tanzania 

“Immunisation represents one of the smartest investments we can make in the health of our citizens.”

Donald Kaberuka, President of the African Development Bank 

“By committing to immunisation, African leaders are taking a bold step towards securing their countries' prosperity and economic security.”