Dunevax to support farmers across southern Africa
The establishment of a Namibian vaccine supplier – and eventually a manufacturer – is expected to strengthen the region's ability to respond to animal disease outbreaks and other emergencies.
"The result we expect is the establishment of a reliable and fully fledged supply chain for animal vaccines across African countries, ensuring a consistent supply of vaccines, particularly during disease outbreaks and other situations where immediate support is required. Prices will be competitive, while new technologies will improve vaccine effectiveness and shelf life," said Goi Geurtse, public officer of Dunevax Biotech.
Although the company was registered in 2023, efforts to develop the project further have been delayed by the need to respond to regional outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD).
"We had to shift our attention to supplying foot-and-mouth disease vaccines to South Africa. Through collaboration with Dollvet in Türkiye, Dunevax Biotech was able to provide an effective vaccine to South Africa, which is currently taking up most of our time and resources. By mid-June, we will have supplied 7.5 million doses, with more deliveries expected soon," Geurtse said.
He said Dunevax aims to support both small-scale and commercial livestock farmers through innovative animal health products.
Supplier of choice
"The vision is to build a Namibian company that becomes southern Africa's leading supplier – and eventually manufacturer – of animal vaccines. By using new technologies, we hope to improve livestock production and animal welfare, particularly among emerging and small-scale farming communities, while also serving commercial producers," he said.
As the project expands, it is also expected to create employment opportunities and contribute to economic growth.
"The project will be implemented in phases. As each phase is completed and operations expand, additional job opportunities will be created. We aim to make a meaningful contribution to employment creation and economic development through the growth of the project," Geurtse said.
Dunevax Biotech was founded by shareholders Dr David Gerber and Fritz Rexrodt.
Gerber has spent nearly four decades working in veterinary science, with a particular focus on vaccine development and combating antimicrobial resistance in livestock.
Rexrodt is the founder of SWAVET South Africa.
