GALVmed, Ikore deploy solar refrigeration to support livestock vaccination in Nigeria

NIGERIA – The Global Alliance for Livestock Vaccines and Medicines (GALVmed) and Ikore International are presenting solar-powered refrigerators to support livestock vaccination efforts in Nigeria, as part of broader efforts to improve vaccine access and strengthen animal health services.

The organisations highlighted the initiative during the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) Congress. 

The equipment supports the Veterinary Innovations Transforming Animal Health and Livelihoods (VITAL 2) project, a 2025-2030 programme implemented in partnership with GALVmed to improve livestock health systems and the livelihoods of small-scale livestock producers.

Cold-chain infrastructure supports vaccine delivery

Reliable refrigeration is essential for maintaining vaccine quality during storage and distribution. 

In areas with limited or unreliable electricity, solar-powered refrigerators can help veterinary services preserve vaccines and improve access for livestock keepers in remote communities.

VITAL 2 includes strengthening cold-chain infrastructure through solar-powered refrigeration and mobile vaccination kits. 

The programme also supports training for veterinary professionals, para-veterinarians, and community animal health workers, along with improvements in vaccine availability, affordability, and disease surveillance.

The project targets five livestock diseases: contagious bovine pleuropneumonia (CBPP), peste des petits ruminants (PPR), sheep and goat pox (SGP), contagious caprine pleuropneumonia (CCPP) and lumpy skin disease (LSD).

Programme targets higher vaccination coverage

VITAL 2 aims to increase small-ruminant vaccination coverage in Nigeria by at least 20% through interventions addressing both vaccine supply and demand.

The programme builds on VITAL 1, which supported the development and commercialisation of livestock vaccines.

Its wider activities involve government veterinary authorities, the National Veterinary Research Institute, vaccine manufacturers, distributors, veterinary professionals and farmer organisations.

Beyond vaccine delivery, the project seeks to strengthen reporting systems and partnerships across Nigeria’s livestock health sector.

Improved access to vaccines could help reduce disease-related losses, protect animal productivity and support the livelihoods of livestock farmers.

GALVmed’s wider VITAL 2 programme focuses on Nigeria, Kenya and Tanzania.

However, the number of refrigerators presented at the congress, their deployment locations, and the expected number of beneficiaries have not been confirmed.

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