The Ministry of Health has launched the distribution of 2.278 million doses of malaria vaccines to 105 districts with high and moderate transmission rates. This marks the beginning of a large-scale vaccination effort aimed at reducing malaria’s impact on vulnerable populations.
This consignment is part of a broader plan to distribute a total of 3.5 million doses in the initial phase of the vaccination program. The rollout will begin in selected districts next month, with plans to extend it to other regions across the country.
The malaria vaccine targets children under the age of two. The vaccination program, scheduled to begin in April, will be the largest malaria vaccine introduction in Uganda to date, both in terms of the number of districts involved and the target population. The vaccine requires four doses, to be administered at 6, 7, 8, and 18 months, providing vital protection during the most vulnerable stages of early childhood.
The Ministry of Health also plans to integrate the malaria vaccine into the country’s routine immunization services as part of a long-term strategy to control the disease.
During the flag-off ceremony on Friday, Health Minister Dr. Jane Aceng emphasized the government’s commitment to strengthening disease prevention efforts and building resilient health systems. “The introduction of the malaria vaccine in Uganda represents a historic step forward in our fight against this deadly disease. With the support of Gavi, UNICEF, and other partners, we are ensuring that every eligible child has access to this life-saving intervention,” Dr. Aceng stated.
UNICEF, responsible for the procurement and airlifting of the vaccines, reaffirmed its commitment to child health and immunization efforts in Uganda. “Today, we turn a page in Uganda’s health story. The malaria vaccine’s introduction brings hope for children across the country. This addition to the national immunization schedule makes Uganda one of the leaders in Africa, with 14 vaccines now included. Our focus now is on ensuring these vaccines are delivered safely and efficiently,” said Dr. Robin Nandy, UNICEF Representative to Uganda.
In total, 17 African countries are preparing to introduce the malaria vaccine as part of their routine immunization programs, marking a major milestone in the global fight against malaria.
