In a significant milestone in the global fight against malaria, Uganda is set to launch the routine immunization of the R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine, marking a historic day in the country's efforts to combat one of its deadliest diseases. The launch, scheduled for April 2, 2025, will take place at Booma Grounds in Apac District, with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni presiding over the national event.
Malaria remains a major health crisis in Uganda, which is among the 11 countries contributing to 70% of the global malaria burden. In 2024, Uganda recorded over 10.9 million malaria cases, resulting in 3,582 deaths, with 16 Ugandans dying from malaria every day, 10 of whom are children under five years old. The disease is responsible for 30-40% of outpatient consultations, 20% of hospital admissions, and 10% of all hospital deaths in the country[1][5].
The R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine, approved by the World Health Organization (WHO), will be administered in a four-dose schedule at six, seven, eight, and 18 months of age. This vaccine is designed to protect children under five years old from severe malaria and death. The rollout will begin in 107 high-malaria transmission districts and is expected to cover over 1.1 million children under two years old. The initiative is supported by GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance, with co-financing from the Government of Uganda, and facilitated by UNICEF, which has procured and airlifted 3.5 million vaccine doses, with 2.278 million already distributed to targeted districts[1][5].
Studies in Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi have shown that the R21/Matrix-M vaccine reduces overall child mortality by 13% and significantly decreases severe malaria hospitalizations. The vaccine works by triggering the immune system to prevent the deadliest malaria parasite, *Plasmodium falciparum*, from infecting and multiplying in the liver[1][2].
Uganda's Ministry of Health, led by Minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, has emphasized that while the vaccine is a crucial tool, it should not replace other malaria prevention measures such as insecticide-treated mosquito nets, indoor residual spraying, seasonal malaria chemo-prevention, and environmental control efforts. The vaccine is part of Uganda’s broader Expanded Programme on Immunization (UNEPI), which now includes 14 vaccines protecting against various diseases[1][5].
The launch in Apac District is part of a larger national effort, with other districts, including Adjumani, also introducing the vaccine into their routine immunization programs. In Adjumani, the vaccine will be launched at Adjumani General Hospital, targeting both nationals and refugees. Local health officials have highlighted the vaccine’s potential to reduce malaria-related illness and death, improving the quality of life for residents[3].
GAVI has played a pivotal role in coordinating the global malaria vaccination program, providing financial support for the procurement, transport, and rollout of doses. Uganda is the 19th African country to integrate the malaria vaccine into its routine immunization program, and this rollout is the largest to date in terms of target districts and population[5].
As Uganda embarks on this significant health initiative, it marks a bold step towards protecting its children, saving lives, and securing a healthier future. The integration of the malaria vaccine into routine immunization is seen as a game-changer in the fight against malaria, and global health partners, including WHO and UNICEF, continue to provide guidance and technical assistance to ensure the successful implementation of this program[5].
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Apr 4 20253 mins