MBANZA-NGUNGU, Democratic Republic of the Congo (BG) — The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has introduced the R21 malaria vaccine into its national immunization program, a critical move to reduce malaria-related child mortality.
In the first phase, 693,500 doses will be distributed, targeting 173,375 children across 31 health zones in Kongo Central province, according to a statement by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Key partners support the rollout, including the WHO, UNICEF, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and the Clinton Health Access Initiative.
These organizations collaborate with the DRC to integrate the vaccine into the national health strategy.
“This initiative demonstrates the importance of combining strategic interventions to combat malaria,” said Dr. Roger Kamba, Minister of Public Health, Hygiene, and Social Welfare. “We are deeply grateful to all partners who have supported the introduction of this vaccine into our immunization program.”
Malaria’s Toll and Vaccine Rollout Efforts
With over 24,000 deaths and more than 27 million malaria cases reported in 2022—primarily among children under five—the DRC faces an urgent public health challenge.
WHO has provided technical guidance for the vaccine rollout, training health workers and launching public awareness campaigns to encourage vaccination.
“By implementing all available prevention strategies, we can protect communities from this deadly disease,” said Dr. Boureima Hama Sambo, WHO Representative in the DRC, as quoted in the statement.
Local leaders in Kongo Central have also promoted community engagement and building trust in the vaccine.
UNICEF is helping to build health worker capacity and engage parents in vaccination efforts.
“UNICEF is a key partner in this effort, helping build health workers’ capacity and promoting vaccination among parents,” said Grant Leaity, UNICEF Representative in the DRC.
Strengthening Health Systems Amid Competing Priorities
The DRC now becomes the 15th African country to introduce malaria vaccination, expanding access to critical prevention tools on the continent.
Malaria continues to cause one child death every minute in Africa, underscoring the need for robust prevention measures.
“The DRC’s progress is especially notable amid competing health priorities,” said Cyril Nogier, Gavi’s Senior Country Director for the DRC. “This shows the importance of strengthening health systems to meet routine immunization and emergency response needs.”
This vaccination effort aligns with the DRC’s 2024-2028 National Malaria Control Plan, which aims to protect 80% of at-risk populations through insecticide-treated nets, preventive treatments, and seasonal malaria chemoprevention, among other measures.
SOURCE : WHO
