Kampala, Uganda – Ministry of Health – Uganda has taken a historic step in the fight against malaria with the launch of the largest-ever malaria vaccine rollout in the country.
Health Minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng flagged off the distribution of 2.278 million doses to 105 districts with high and moderate malaria transmission rates.
The vaccination program, set to begin in April 2025, will target children under two years old. The four-dose malaria vaccine will be administered at 6, 7, 8, and 18 months to ensure maximum protection against the deadly disease.
The initiative is backed by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, with co-financing from the Government of Uganda.
UNICEF has procured and airlifted the vaccines, ensuring timely delivery and quality. The World Health Organization (WHO) has provided technical guidance and endorsed the vaccine following successful pilot programs in Africa.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Dr. Aceng emphasized the government’s commitment to improving child health.
“The introduction of the malaria vaccine is a game-changer in our efforts to protect children from this deadly disease. We are grateful for the support of Gavi, UNICEF, WHO, and other partners in making this a reality,” she said.
UNICEF Representative to Uganda, Dr. Robin Nandy, praised the government for adding malaria vaccination to the national immunization schedule.
“This is a turning point in Uganda’s health journey. Parents must ensure their children complete the full vaccination schedule for maximum protection,” he urged.
Gavi’s Senior Country Manager for Uganda, Billie Nieuwenhuys, commended Uganda’s preparedness and highlighted the broader impact of the rollout.
“Malaria remains a leading cause of child deaths. This vaccine will save thousands of lives each year and ease the burden on families and health systems,” Nieuwenhuys stated.
Malaria is Uganda’s leading cause of illness and death among children under five.
According to the Ministry of Health, the disease accounts for 30–50% of outpatient visits and 15–20% of hospital admissions.
The vaccine, integrated into routine immunization, will complement existing malaria prevention measures such as: Insecticide-treated mosquito nets, indoor residual spraying, seasonal malaria chemoprevention, effective diagnosis and treatment.
The malaria vaccine is not a replacement for these measures but an additional layer of protection.
Uganda joins 17 African countries that have already introduced the malaria vaccine under Gavi’s support.
In 2024, 14 nations—including Nigeria, South Sudan, and DR Congo—rolled out the vaccine, following Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi’s pilot programs in 2021.
In 2025, more countries, including Burundi, Mali, Ethiopia, and Guinea, are set to introduce it.
WHO’s Africa region office has committed to supporting Uganda throughout the implementation process.
“Uganda’s preparedness will be key to ensuring a smooth rollout. Sharing lessons from other countries will help in overcoming challenges,” a WHO official stated.
With vaccines now in the country, the Ministry of Health will embark on an awareness campaign to educate parents and caregivers on the importance of vaccination. Health workers are being trained to handle the rollout efficiently.
The government is urging all parents to take their children for immunization at health facilities. The goal is to ensure that every eligible child receives all four doses for full protection.
This malaria vaccine introduction represents a breakthrough in Uganda’s public health sector. If successfully implemented, it will significantly reduce malaria-related deaths and contribute to a healthier future for Ugandan children.
