WHO: Vaccine inequality leaving 'swathes' behind

In comparison, over half of the world's total population has already been double vaccinated.

Speaking during a virtual panel on vaccine equity at the World Economic Forum, Ryan stressed that "we are leaving huge swathes of the world behind."

Africa CDC Director, John Nkengasong, echoed Ryan's statement, saying that there is no reason for Africa to be "lagging" behind other continents.

"What we have seen over the last two years is really a total collapse of global cooperation and solidarity."

Seth Berkley, CEO of GAVI, The Vaccine Alliance, said the challenge with developing countries "is giving them the tools, the finance and the planning time to be able to roll these products out."

COVAX was launched in 2020 with the goal of delivering 2 billion doses by the end of 2021, but was slowed by wealthier states' initial hoarding of limited shots, export restrictions and frequent changes within its organization.