In 2025, African countries are set to expand malaria vaccine coverage at unprecedented levels, marking a potential turning point in the fight against one of the continent’s deadliest public health threats. Uganda is leading the effort with Africa’s largest rollout, distributing 2.278 million doses of the R21/Matrix-M vaccine to 105 districts, targeting 1.1 million children under two through a four-dose schedule integrated into routine immunisation programs. Zambia and Burundi are also preparing national rollouts, while countries including Ethiopia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Mali, and Togo plan phased subnational introductions later in the year.
Two vaccines, RTS,S and R21, have demonstrated strong efficacy—up to 72% and 75% respectively—especially when used alongside interventions like insecticide-treated nets and indoor spraying. Pilot programs in Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi have already shown significant reductions in severe malaria and child mortality, validating the vaccines’ safety and effectiveness. Several other countries, including Burkina Faso, Ghana, Kenya, and Nigeria, have begun nationwide distribution, supported by WHO, Gavi, UNICEF, and global health partners.
Despite these advances, logistical challenges remain, including cold-chain management, healthcare worker training, adherence to vaccination schedules, and community engagement to boost uptake and dispel myths. Funding uncertainty has emerged following the United States’ decision to halt support for Gavi, raising concerns about broader vaccine programs and research initiatives. However, current malaria vaccine rollouts, including Uganda’s, remain on track, backed by existing Gavi commitments and high-level pledges from other donors totaling over US$9 billion.
Experts stress the importance of African nations taking greater ownership of their health programs to ensure long-term sustainability. While external support remains valuable, leaders like Nicaise Ndembi of the International Vaccine Institute argue that governments must invest in domestic health systems to safeguard routine immunisation and vaccine delivery. Meanwhile, initiatives like Uganda’s five-year Gavi Health System Strengthening grant are enhancing healthcare worker training and capacity-building to support ongoing rollout efforts.
Health authorities emphasize that malaria vaccines should complement existing control measures, including treated bed nets and antimalarials. With coordinated efforts, the introduction of these vaccines could reduce clinical malaria cases by more than 90% in high-transmission areas, potentially saving millions of young lives across Africa. The 2025 rollout represents not only a historic milestone but a critical opportunity for African countries to lead in combating malaria while building resilient, self-sustaining health systems.
