Key Takeaways:

• Nepal secures Rs 8.59 billion in vaccine support through 2030
• Gavi waives US$308,271 repayment linked to audit findings
• Funding will support Nepal's routine immunisation programme
• Assistance comes amid growing pressure on global development aid

KATHMANDU, OCTOBER 27 Nepal has secured Rs 8.59 billion in vaccine support from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, through 2030, providing a major boost to the country's routine immunisation programme at a time when global development funding is under increasing pressure. According to the Ministry of Health and Food Safety, the assistance will help sustain vaccination services and ensure continued protection against infectious diseases among children and other target groups. In a further relief for the government, Gavi has also waived a US$308,271 repayment that Nepal had been asked to return following an audit of routine immunisation assistance provided between fiscal years 2016/17 and 2021/22. The audit had identified procedural shortcomings in the use of funds. Health officials said securing long-term support through 2030, combined with the repayment waiver, would strengthen the financial sustainability of Nepal's immunisation programme and improve its management systems. Routine immunisation remains one of Nepal's most important public health interventions, and the ministry said continued international support is essential to maintaining the accessibility, continuity and effectiveness of vaccination services nationwide.