Zambia Rolls Out Malaria Vaccine to Protect Thousands of Young Lives
The Government of the Republic of Zambia, through the Ministry of Health, formally launched the malaria vaccine R21/Matrix-M as part of the Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI). This landmark effort aims to shield more than 500,000 children aged 6 to 8 months in the initial phase, setting a new course in the country’s ongoing battle against malaria.
Why This Vaccine Matters in Zambia
Malaria remains a leading cause of illness and death in Zambia, particularly among children under five. Recent data highlight the persistent burden: in 2023, malaria incidence among this age group reached 523 cases per 1,000 population. The disease contributes to anaemia, stunted development, and preventable fatalities, underscoring the need for a multi-pronged approach to malaria control.
How the Rollout Will Work
The vaccination program will commence in 83 districts, focusing on 79 high-burden and 4 moderate-burden areas in the first phase. A second phase in 2026 will extend the vaccine to five additional moderate-transmission districts. The four-dose schedule begins with Dose 1 at 6 months, followed by Dose 2 at 7 months, Dose 3 at 8 months, and Dose 4 between 18 and 23 months. The strategy aligns with WHO recommendations and the National Malaria Elimination Strategic Plan, complementing existing interventions such as insecticide-treated nets and indoor residual spraying.
Partnerships powering the Initiative
UNICEF, Gavi, and a host of partners are supporting Zambia’s vaccine rollout. UNICEF’s involvement spans planning, cold chain readiness, procurement, distribution, and community mobilization. Gavi is coordinating funding and the co-financing model that helps countries scale up immunisation programs. WHO also provides ongoing technical support, ensuring the program meets global standards for safety and effectiveness.
Statements from Health Leaders and Partners
In remarks at the launch, Hon. Elijah Muchima, Zambia’s Minister of Health, highlighted the vaccine as a powerful tool that should be used in concert with other life-saving measures, including ITN distribution, IRS, rapid diagnosis, and treatment. He stressed that this vaccine marks progress but is not a substitute for comprehensive malaria control efforts.
UNICEF Zambia’s representative, Dr Saja Farooq Abdullah, called the rollout a milestone for child health, emphasizing that protecting about half a million children in the first phase lays a strong foundation for future resilience. WHO Representative to Zambia, Dr Peter Clement Lasuba, echoed the message, underscoring the country’s commitment to moving toward a malaria-free generation with sustained support.
Operational Details and Local Impact
The vaccine will be delivered through health facilities, outreach services, and community-based channels to ensure broad access. Doses are free of charge, reflecting the public health priority of leaving no child behind. The initiative also strengthens surveillance, data collection, and community engagement—critical components for monitoring impact and guiding future phases of the elimination effort.
Looking Ahead
As Zambia embraces this vaccine as part of a comprehensive malaria elimination strategy, the country joins 23 other nations in rolling out this intervention. The collaboration between government agencies, international partners, and funding bodies highlights a global commitment to protecting children from malaria and reducing disparities in access to life-saving vaccines.
Related Partners and Resources
Public health authorities, UNICEF, Gavi, WHO, and other organizations continue to collaborate on vaccine procurement, logistics, and community outreach to ensure the malaria vaccine reaches every eligible child. For ongoing updates, follow official health channels and partner organizations for the latest headlines and milestones.
