In a significant stride toward malaria prevention in Africa, Benin, Liberia, and Sierra Leone commenced a large-scale rollout of the life-saving malaria vaccine targeting millions of children across the three West African nations. This initiative, announced on World Malaria Day, aims to enhance vaccine deployment in the African region.
The launch extends access to comprehensive malaria prevention, making these countries among the eight in Africa to offer the malaria vaccine as part of childhood immunization programs. More than 30 African nations have expressed interest, with several scheduled to roll out the vaccine in the coming year with support from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, in coordination with other prevention measures.
Benin has integrated the malaria vaccine into its Expanded Programme on Immunization, with plans to administer four doses to children from around 5 months of age. Liberia’s rollout began in Rivercess County and will extend to five other high malaria burden counties. Sierra Leone initiated its rollout with the first doses administered in the Western Area Rural, with plans for nationwide delivery.
The introduction of these vaccines marks a significant advancement in the fight against malaria, as stated by health ministers Prof Benjamin Hounkpatin of Benin, Dr. Louise Kpoto of Liberia, and Dr. Austin Demby of Sierra Leone. The World Health Organization recommends two safe and effective vaccines – RTS,S and R21 – as breakthroughs for child health and malaria control.
Malaria remains a substantial health challenge in Africa, where 11 countries carry approximately 70% of the global burden. Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, emphasizes the importance of scaling up the vaccine rollout to protect young children and lower the malaria burden in the region.
Aurélia Nguyen, Chief Programme Officer at Gavi, underscores the impact of introducing malaria vaccines alongside proven interventions, offering relief to families and communities. Progress against malaria has been impeded in these high-burden African countries since 2017 due to various factors, necessitating robust commitment, increased funding, and coordinated responses to address critical gaps and challenges.