The Ministry of Health has launched the Malaria Vaccine (R21/Matrix-M) as part of Uganda’s routine immunization schedule for children aged 6 to 18 months.
This critical initiative aims to protect over 1.1 million children under two years old and reduce the country’s malaria burden. The vaccine will be administered free of charge in 107 high-risk districts, with four doses scheduled at 6, 7, 8, and 18 months.
The launch event, held at Booma Grounds in Apac District, was officiated by the Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Robinnah Nabbanja, alongside the Minister of Health, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng. Also in attendance were local Members of Parliament, Apac District leadership, health partners, and other key stakeholders.
With this rollout, Uganda has become the 19th African country to integrate the malaria vaccine into its national immunization program.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng underscored the vaccine’s potential to prevent severe malaria cases among young children.
“This vaccine is expected to save families approximately UGX 15,000 per case, helping to alleviate the financial burden associated with severe malaria treatment,” she stated.
She also reassured the public that the vaccine has been approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) and Ugandan government scientists.
Malaria remains one of the leading causes of illness and death in Uganda, particularly among young children. “Data from public and private health facilities indicate that malaria is responsible for 30-50 percent of outpatient clinic attendances, 15-20 percent of admissions, and up to 20 percent of in-patient deaths,” Dr. Aceng highlighted.
Beyond its health impact, malaria significantly affects Uganda’s economy. “Malaria has a significant negative impact on the economy of Uganda due to loss of workforce because of sickness, decreased productivity, decreased school attendance and poor overall school performance, and loss of foreign direct investment,” Dr. Aceng emphasized.
To ensure the vaccine reaches eligible children, the Ministry of Health has distributed over 2.2 million doses across the 107 target districts.
Additionally, extensive community mobilization campaigns have been conducted to raise awareness and encourage participation in the immunization program.
According to the World Malaria Report 2019, Uganda ranks as the third highest contributor of malaria cases globally and the seventh highest contributor of malaria-related deaths.
The introduction of the R21 vaccine is expected to significantly reduce these numbers and improve child health outcomes nationwide.