Government Introduces Malaria Vaccine to Protect Children and Strengthen Health Systems

The government has officially launched the R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine, becoming the 23rd African country to introduce a malaria vaccine into its routine immunization program. This historic step marks a significant advancement in the country’s efforts to reduce the burden of malaria and protect vulnerable populations, particularly children under five.

The vaccine rollout has begun in 58 districts across 9 regions, selected based on WHO’s prioritization criteria. These districts represent the highest malaria burden in the country. Over 91,000 children will be targeted in the initial phase, receiving four doses at 6, 7, 9, and 15 months of age.

The vaccine, R21/Matrix-M, one of the malaria vaccines prequalified by WHO, has shown promising results in reducing severe malaria cases and child mortality.