African Union Launches Digital Vaccine Passport

The African Union (AU) has launched a common digital vaccine platform that allows the continent’s citizens to acquire free digital proof of their vaccinations.

According to AU, the digital proof of vaccinations can be verified around the world utilising the PanaBIOS and UNDP-backed Global Haven mechanisms.

The continental union also launched the digital platform, AfCFTA Hub. The Hub interconnects national, regional, and private digital applications together to boost the ability of SMEs to expand their business.

It also enables the SMEs to export their products across Africa through improved logistics, networking of retail outlets, integration of fintechs and brand development support. Financing is provided through the affiliated AfCFTA Caravan Initiative.

“Every SME or start-up in the African Union is now entitled to a free AfCFTA Number following the launch,” the Union said in a statement.

AU stated the AfCFTA Hub also boosts of a supply chain component called, ProPer, for managing the potential negative side effects of the platform’s trade liberalisation scheme such as dumping, smuggling and counterfeiting.

On the digital financial services and fintech fronts, companies that participated in the launch of the Hub included M-Pesa, PAPSS, Vodacom, Orange, WebbFontaine, Scanning Systems, and Standard Bank. Input into the development finance prospects came from the African Development Bank (AfDB).

The two platforms were launched early during the Boma of Africa event held on 8th July 2022