A nationwide survey by the National Vaccine Institute (National Vaccine Institute) has found high levels of public confidence in vaccines across Ghana, easing concerns about widespread vaccine hesitancy.
The study, which covered all 16 regions and 55 districts and analysed 13,905 responses, shows that most Ghanaians view vaccines as essential life-saving tools and support efforts to expand immunisation, including the introduction of locally manufactured vaccines expected in 2027.
According to findings shared in a press release to the Ghana News Agency in Cape Coast, 89.7% of respondents expressed confidence in vaccines, while 94.2% supported shared responsibility in ensuring vaccine availability nationwide.
The survey also revealed strong readiness for locally produced vaccines, with 71.3% of respondents indicating willingness to use Ghana-made vaccines once production begins.
Trust in health professionals and regulatory bodies was also notably high, with 87.8% of respondents expressing confidence in doctors and nurses, alongside strong trust in the Ghana Health Service and the Food and Drugs Authority.
However, awareness of Ghana’s vaccine manufacturing agenda remains low, with only 14.3% of respondents aware of ongoing preparations for local production.
The report identified regional differences in vaccine acceptance, noting that urban centres such as Greater Accra, Central, and Ashanti Regions recorded comparatively lower acceptance levels, while northern regions and the Oti Region showed stronger trust in vaccines.
Researchers attributed the disparity to varying social influences and information environments, recommending more targeted communication strategies to address misconceptions and improve uptake.
The survey also highlighted practical challenges such as cost, access distance, and concerns over vaccine storage and cold chain systems, particularly in rural communities.
Dr Sodzi Sodzi-Tettey, Chief Executive Officer of the NVI, said Ghana has a strong foundation of vaccine confidence but must close awareness gaps and address misinformation around local vaccine production.
He added that coordinated national education campaigns will be key as Ghana advances toward vaccine self-sufficiency, in line with broader African Union goals to boost local pharmaceutical manufacturing and health security.
