Enhancing vaccine supply chains

Title : Enhancing vaccine supply chains

Abstract:

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) faces multifaceted challenges in vaccine supply and logistics, hindering the efficient delivery and distribution of life-saving vaccines. This presentation delves into the complexities surrounding vaccine supply chains within the context of the DRC, exploring the intricate interplay of infrastructural limitations, geographical barriers, political instability, and socio-economic factors.

For example, in July 2016, the Ministry of Health decided to delegate vaccine supply chain management functions from the Medical Stores Department (MSD) to the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) to reduce storage and distribution costs. A retrospective cost-minimization study was carried out to estimate the costs associated with storing and distributing vaccines to the EPI and MSD in 2018.

In addition to delineating these barriers, the presentation will offer innovative strategies and best practices for optimizing vaccine supply chains in the DRC, such as:

1. Predictive Analytics: Using data analytics to forecast vaccine demand accurately for better planning and allocation.
2. Cold Chain Optimization: Implementing solar-powered refrigeration and temperature-monitoring devices to maintain vaccine integrity during storage and transportation, particularly in remote areas.
3. Just-in-Time Manufacturing: Adopting agile manufacturing processes to produce vaccines in response to real-time demand fluctuations, preventing overproduction or shortages.

Efforts are also underway in the DRC to strengthen governance frameworks, ensuring transparency, accountability, and equitable distribution of vaccines. These efforts include establishing guidelines for distribution, monitoring systems for tracking vaccine allocation, and addressing disparities in access to vaccines. 

Audience Take Away:

• Insights into the logistical and infrastructural challenges of vaccine supply in the DRC
• Strategies for optimizing vaccine distribution using data analytics and cold chain innovations
• Governance mechanisms to ensure equitable access to vaccines across the country
• As for job, this information will equip the audience with practical solutions for improving vaccine logistics, which can be applied to enhance vaccine delivery systems in low-resource settings

Biography:

Gisèle Kaningini is a senior logistician at the National Institute of Biomedical Research (INRB), with extensive experience in healthcare supply chain management. Passionate about healthcare logistics, she is dedicated to addressing the challenges of vaccine distribution in the DRC. Gisèle has led various initiatives aimed at optimizing supply chain processes, with a focus on ensuring equitable access to life-saving vaccines.