Aceng Launches Malaria Vaccine With Malaria Consortium Support, Says It’s Game-changer That’ll Save Lives

Uganda has taken a major step in its fight against malaria with the official launch of the malaria vaccine into the country’s routine immunization schedule.

The announcement was made by Hon. Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, Minister of Health, at a high-profile event held at Boma Grounds in Apac District. The historic move is set to protect millions of children and reduce the heavy malaria burden in the country.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Aceng emphasized that malaria remains a major public health challenge in Uganda, accounting for a significant percentage of hospital consultations, admissions, and deaths. In 2024 alone, Uganda recorded 10.9 million malaria cases, leading to 3,582 deaths, with children under five and pregnant women being the most affected.

“The introduction of the malaria vaccine is a game-changer in our fight against this deadly disease. This is a milestone that brings us closer to a malaria-free Uganda,” Dr. Aceng stated.

The R21 Malaria Vaccine: A New Hope

The vaccine being introduced, known as the R21 malaria vaccine, is a breakthrough in global malaria prevention. It works by triggering the immune system to block Plasmodium falciparum, the deadliest malaria parasite, before it infects the liver. Results from pilot programs in Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi showed a 13% reduction in child deaths and a notable decrease in severe malaria cases.

Dr. Aceng confirmed that Uganda has received an initial 3.5 million doses of the vaccine, with more expected in the coming months. The vaccine rollout will begin in 107 high and moderate-burden districts, targeting over 1.1 million children under the age of two. Eligible children between 6 and 18 months will receive a four-dose schedule at 6, 7, 8, and 18 months for full protection.

A Strengthened Immunization Program

The malaria vaccine now becomes the 14th vaccine in Uganda’s National Expanded Program for Immunization, which started in 1983. Other diseases covered include polio, tuberculosis, measles, hepatitis B, pneumonia, and cervical cancer. Over the past two decades, Uganda has achieved significant progress in reducing child mortality rates through immunization efforts.

A Multi-Sectoral Effort

The introduction of the malaria vaccine is part of Uganda’s broader strategy under the Uganda Malaria Reduction and Elimination Strategic Plan (UMRESP 2021-2025). In addition to the vaccine, the government continues to promote complementary malaria prevention measures such as insecticide-treated mosquito nets, indoor residual spraying, seasonal malaria chemoprevention, and environmental control measures.

Dr. Aceng urged parents and caregivers to ensure that children complete all four doses of the malaria vaccine while continuing to use other preventive measures. “This vaccine does not replace other interventions but complements them in our mission to eradicate malaria,” she said.

Acknowledgments and Call to Action

Ms. Stella of Malaria Consortium standing at their stall at the event

The Minister extended appreciation to key partners, including Gavi, UNICEF, WHO, PATH, CHAI, the Global Fund, Malaria Consortium, and the Government of Uganda, for their support in ensuring the success of the malaria vaccine rollout. She also lauded President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his leadership in advancing public health initiatives.

Dr. Aceng called on community leaders and parents to spread awareness and ensure all eligible children are vaccinated. “Together, let us embrace this new hope. Let us vaccinate our children. Let us defeat malaria,” she declared.

Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja was among the guests who attended the launch.