Benin, Liberia, and Sierra Leone launched large-scale rollouts of a life-saving malaria vaccine in a major step forward for malaria prevention This brings the total number of African countries offering the vaccine to eight.
The rollout targets millions of children across the three West African nations and aims to further expand vaccine deployment in Africa. The vaccine is delivered in a four-dose schedule starting around 5 months of age.
“The introduction of the malaria vaccine is a major step forward in the fight against this scourge,” said Benin’s Health Minister, Professor Benjamin Hounkpatin. He emphasized the vaccine’s safety and effectiveness in protecting children from this serious disease.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends two safe and effective vaccines – RTS,S and R21. These represent a breakthrough for child health and malaria control. Pilot programs in Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi from 2019 to 2023 showed a significant reduction in malaria illness, child mortality, and hospitalizations.
Malaria remains a major health threat in Africa, with 11 African countries carrying 70% of the global burden. The region accounted for 94% of malaria cases and 95% of deaths in 2022.
“The African region is advancing in the rollout of the malaria vaccine, a game-changer in our fight against this deadly disease,” said Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa.
Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, is also playing a key role. “Today we celebrate more children gaining access to a new lifesaving tool,” said Aurelia Nguyen, Chief Programme Officer at Gavi.
