Gavi Decides Not to Seek Return of $308,271 USD from Nepal

Kathmandu. International vaccine partner Gavi has decided not to ask Nepal to return 308,271 US dollars. The amount will be adjusted from the assistance Nepal will receive in the coming days under Gavi 6.0.

Gavi has informed Health Minister Nisha Mehta through a letter that the decision was made based on the bilateral meeting held during the World Health Assembly, subsequent correspondence, and the proposal presented by the Government of Nepal.

Gavi has clarified that its decision is a special and one-time arrangement for Nepal. The letter also states that this decision will not be taken as a precedent for similar issues in the future.

Gavi has so far provided assistance to Nepal worth more than 550 million US dollars. This assistance has helped in the operation of regular immunization programs in Nepal, introduction and expansion of new vaccines, strengthening of cold chain (vaccine storage and transportation system), vaccine procurement, capacity building of health workers, vaccine supply management, and programs such as the COVID-19 vaccination campaign.