The Ministry of Health, with support from Gavi and alliance partners, rolled out a malaria vaccination campaign in Apac District, northern Uganda, on Wednesday. This initiative makes Uganda the 19th African country to integrate the malaria vaccine into routine immunization programs.
Apac District, noted by the Health Ministry as having the highest global rate of mosquito bites per person (over 1,500 annually), has been prioritized for the campaign, driving the largest vaccine rollout to date in terms of district coverage and population reach.
The R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine, administered in four doses at 6, 7, 8, and 18 months of age, will initially target 1.1 million children under two years old across 105 high- and moderate-risk districts. Authorities plan to expand the program nationwide in subsequent phases.
Health Minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng urged parents and caregivers to ensure eligible children aged 6–18 months receive the vaccine at nearby health facilities. “Completing all four doses on schedule is crucial for optimal protection,” she emphasized.
Dr. Aceng highlighted the vaccine’s potential impact: “This milestone is expected to prevent at least 800 severe malaria cases daily among children, while saving families approximately UGX 15,000 per case previously spent on treatment.”
Gavi CEO Dr. Sania Nishtar commended Uganda’s efforts, stressing that the “safe and effective” vaccine will save lives and reduce hospitalizations. However, she warned that sustained funding is critical to maintain progress: “Without continued support, millions of children remain vulnerable, risking the reversal of hard-won gains.”
Dr. Robin Nandy, UNICEF Representative to Uganda, hailed the rollout as a “historic step” in combating malaria. He underscored the importance of combining the vaccine with existing measures like bed nets and insecticides: “Together, these interventions create a powerful shield against the disease.”
Dr. Kasonde Mwinga, WHO Representative to Uganda, described the campaign as a “turning point,” adding, “Integrating this vaccine into routine immunization underscores Uganda’s commitment to safeguarding children’s health and securing a malaria-free future.”
Malaria’s Toll in Uganda
Malaria remains the leading cause of illness and death among Ugandan children, accounting for 40% of outpatient visits, 25% of hospital admissions, and 14% of hospital deaths (WHO, 2022). In 2023, Uganda ranked among Africa’s top five countries for malaria burden, alongside Nigeria, DR Congo, Ethiopia, and Mozambique.
Preparations for the Rollout
The Health Ministry, backed by partners, has distributed 2.278 million vaccine doses to the 105 target districts. Preparations included community mobilization campaigns involving MPs, cultural and religious leaders, and door-to-door outreach. Additional steps encompassed health worker training, cold chain capacity upgrades, and detailed implementation plans.
This campaign marks a pivotal stride in Uganda’s fight against malaria, combining global collaboration, local leadership, and life-saving innovation.
