Uganda’s fight against malaria has reached a significant milestone with the distribution of 2.278 million doses of malaria vaccines to 105 districts across the country. The Minister of Health, Hon. Dr Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, officially flagged off the distribution, marking the beginning of a nationwide effort to protect children under two years from the deadly disease.
The initiative is made possible through the support of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and co-financing from the Government of Uganda. UNICEF has undertaken the procurement and air freighting of the vaccines, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality vaccines.
The malaria vaccine will be introduced into the routine immunization schedule in April 2025, targeting children aged below two years. This will be the largest malaria vaccine introduction to date, with a four-dose vaccine administered at 6, 7, 8, and 18 months to ensure optimal protection during early childhood.
Malaria remains the leading cause of illness and death among young children in Uganda, and the introduction of the vaccine is expected to significantly reduce severe illness and deaths among children under five years.
Dr Aceng emphasized the government’s commitment to strengthening disease prevention efforts and building resilient health systems. “The introduction of the malaria vaccine in Uganda is a historic step forward in our fight against this deadly disease.”
UNICEF Representative to Uganda, Dr Robin Nandy, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to child health and immunization efforts in Uganda. “Today, we turn a page in Uganda’s health story. With the introduction of the malaria vaccine, we are delivering hope for children in Uganda.”
Gavi has supported 17 other African countries in introducing the vaccine as part of their routine immunization programs. The World Health Organization (WHO) coordinated the pilot evaluation of the first malaria vaccine, generating evidence that led to WHO’s recommendation and pre-qualification of two safe and effective malaria vaccines.
The Ministry of Health urges parents and caregivers to bring their children to health facilities to receive the vaccine as part of routine immunization services.
