GAVI not seeking refund from Nepal

Kathmandu / July 25: The Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI) has decided not to ask for a refund of 308,271 USD from Nepal.

Following the initiative of Minister for Health and Food Safety, Nisha Mehta, the amount will be adjusted from the support Nepal will receive in the coming days under GAVI 6.0.

The GAVI has informed Nepal that the decision was made based on the bilateral meeting held during the World Health Assembly, subsequent correspondence and the proposal presented by Nepal, according to the Ministry of Health and Food Safety.

It may be noted that the GAVI has so far provided assistance worth more than 550 million US dollars to Nepal, which has helped in the implementation of routine vaccination programs, the introduction and expansion of new vaccines, strengthening the cold chain (vaccine storage and transportation system), vaccine procurement, capacity building of health workers, vaccine supply management, and the implementation of programs against COVID-19.

After the signing of the Partnership Framework between Nepal and GAVI in 2014, a special audit was conducted in 2022 to review the management and financial systems of the programs implemented with GAVI support. A follow-up audit was held in 2024.

After the review, GAVI wrote to the then Ministry of Health and Population on 13 November 2024, requesting Nepal’s commitment and payment plan for 308,271 US dollars.

To resolve this issue, Minister for Health and Food Ssafety Nisha Mehta had direct discussions with GAVI heads during the World Health Assembly. This was followed by a formal correspondence with the GAVI proposal on 4 June 2026.

After the same discussion and continuous coordination, GAVI accepted the proposal presented by Nepal and decided not to seek a refund of the amount and to adjust it from the upcoming cash assistance that Nepal will receive under GAVI 6.0.

In its letter, GAVI praised the commitment to the national immunization program, the expansion of vaccination services, financial management, timely implementation of audit recommendations, and efforts to improve program operations.

It also expressed its commitment to continue long-term cooperation with Nepal in the coming days. According to the concerned agencies, it is believed that the decision will further strengthen the Nepal-GAVI partnership and provide significant support in the sustainability of the national immunization program and the operation of future health programs. RSS