Africa’s CDC explains how a vaccine waiver would help its lagging rollout

In a contentious reversal of its previous position, the US on May 6 announced its support for a suspension of intellectual property rights on Covid-19 vaccines. The African Union’s public health agency applauded the move, saying the waiver would offer the continent a “unique” opportunity to advance its vaccine manufacturing. The US’ decision isn’t enough on its own: The IP proposal requires unanimous support from the World Trade Organization’s member countries, and many (including the European Union) remain opposed.