Evaluating COVAX: Driving lessons for future pandemic preparedness

Genesis Analytics, in collaboration with RTI International (as prime) and Itad, undertook a comprehensive evaluation of the COVAX Facility, Advance Market Commitment (AMC), and the COVAX Delivery Pillar Efforts. This global initiative, launched in April 2020, aimed to ensure equitable global access to COVID-19 vaccines for all participating countries, regardless of their income level.

Our core aims were to:

• Assess and derive lessons from the implementation and results of the COVAX Facility and AMC and COVAX Delivery Pillar
• Inform future programmes and strategies for pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response (PPPR) for Gavi/WHO/UNICEF and public audiences with evidence-backed and strategy-relevant findings.

As a key partner in this comprehensive evaluation, Genesis Analytics led rigorous country-level case studies in Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, and Zambia, and a special study in the conflict-affected and fragile context of Somalia. 

We deployed robust qualitative research methodologies, including extensive key informant interviews (KIIs) and comprehensive data and document reviews, to derive  nuanced insights into COVAX's on-the-ground implementation and its achievements amidst diverse global and local factors.

This project has yielded invaluable lessons for future pandemic preparedness and response strategies. It powerfully highlights the importance of strong global partnerships, adaptable implementation frameworks, and deep country-level engagement to achieve equitable health outcomes in crisis situations. 

The comprehensive insights gathered from this evaluation have directly informed our clients and the global health community on critical aspects of pandemic response. We provided actionable recommendations on strengthening vaccine delivery systems, enhancing community engagement strategies, improving data management in challenging contexts, and fostering sustainable health system resilience. 

Our work supports future investments and policy decisions aimed at ensuring a more equitable and effective global health emergency preparedness and response.