In a groundbreaking effort to combat malaria, the Ministry of Health has dispatched 2.7 million doses of the malaria vaccine to 105 districts, prioritising regions with high and moderate malaria transmission rates.
This $9 million initiative positions Uganda as the first country to fully enroll the malaria vaccine program globally, marking a significant milestone in the fight against the deadly disease.
Speaking about the initiative, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, Minister of Health, reaffirmed the urgency of addressing malaria, which remains the leading cause of death among children under five in Uganda. With 16 lives lost to malaria daily, 10 of whom are children—the introduction of the vaccine is a critical intervention. However, the minister emphasized that “The vaccine comes to reduce the burden as an additional tool, not to replace the existing ones,” .
Malaria continues to strain Uganda’s healthcare system, accounting for 35 outpatient cases and 25 inpatient hospitalisations daily, according to Dr. Robin Nandy, representative of the UNICEF Uganda Country Office. He commended the Ugandan government, Gavi, and other partners for spearheading this initiative, which is expected to save thousands of lives annually.
In order to ensure safety and accessibility, the vaccines are currently stored at the National Medical Stores (NMS) in Entebbe, kept in seven modern cold rooms to ensure optimal safety and efficacy. Dr. Anzoa Joy Christine Ondoa, a board member at NMS, assured the public that all vaccines and medical supplies are secure and ready for distribution.
The official national launch of the malaria vaccination program is scheduled for April 2 2025 in Apac District, Lango Sub-region known for high malaria transmission rates. “30,000 pallets are safe and ready for distribution,”Dr. Ondoa confirmed.
While the malaria vaccine is a historic breakthrough, the government maintains that it will complement, not replace, existing malaria prevention strategies. Dr. Aceng reiterated the importance of bush clearing, sleeping under insecticide-treated mosquito nets, and taking antimalarial medication as part of a holistic diverse strategy for controlling malaria.
She also emphasised that the vaccine is completely free, urging parents and carers to ensure their children receive the required doses and warning against any unauthorised charges for vaccination services.
Beyond its immediate health benefits, the malaria vaccine program is expected to positively impact Uganda’s economic growth. With fewer malaria cases, families will experience reduced medical expenses, improved workforce productivity, and enhanced child well-being. “With the reduction in malaria cases, parents will be more productive, leading to economic development,”Dr. Aceng noted.
The malaria vaccine introduction in Uganda is a landmark achievement in the country’s ongoing battle against malaria. With support from Gavi, UNICEF, WHO, and other partners, the Ministry of Health is determined to protect millions of children and move towards a malaria-free Uganda.As the country embarks on this historic vaccination campaign, health officials urge all Ugandans to embrace the vaccine and continue practicing proven malaria prevention measures.
The Writer is a Communications officer at Government Citizen Interaction Centre-State House.
