DRC introduces R21 Malaria vaccine to protect children

DRC—The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has taken a significant step in its fight against malaria by introducing the R21 malaria vaccine into its national immunization program.

This move, aimed at strengthening existing malaria prevention strategies, seeks to protect and save the lives of young children, who are among the most vulnerable to this deadly disease.

The country recently received 693,500 doses of the R21 malaria vaccine, which the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended.

 The vaccine’s rollout began in Kongo Central province, with 173,375 children across 31 health zones targeted in this initial phase.

WHO, in partnership with UNICEF, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, the Clinton Health Access Initiative, PATH, Breakthrough Action, and the national NGO SANRU, supports DRC health authorities to ensure the vaccine is introduced effectively and safely.

While announcing this milestone, Dr. Roger Kamba, the DRC’s Minister of Public Health, Hygiene, and Social Welfare, emphasized the importance of integrating high-impact interventions to combat malaria.

He also expressed gratitude to all partners for their crucial support in introducing the malaria vaccine into the country’s immunization schedule.

Malaria remains a serious public health threat in the DRC, killing over 24,000 people and infecting more than 27 million, mostly children under five, as reported in 2022 by the Ministry of Public Health.

Recognizing the significance of this effort, Dr. Boureima Hama Sambo, WHO Representative in the DRC, highlighted that the introduction of the vaccine is a major milestone in protecting children’s health.

 He added that this initiative will enhance the protection of families and communities when combined with ongoing prevention measures.

To prepare for the vaccine’s rollout, WHO has provided technical guidance, trained health workers, and set up public awareness and communication strategies.

Leaders from administrative, political, religious, and community sectors in Kongo Central province have also been sensitized to help ensure community acceptance and participation.

UNICEF has played a central role in this deployment. Grant Leaity, UNICEF’s Representative in the DRC, mentioned that the organization has contributed technical expertise to strengthen the capacity of health teams, develop management tools, and create communication strategies that encourage vaccination.

UNICEF remains committed to ensuring that all Congolese children benefit from this critical health measure, aligning with the national vaccine rollout plan.

With the introduction of the R21 vaccine, the DRC joins 14 other African nations offering malaria vaccinations, expanding access to a more comprehensive approach against malaria.

Currently, malaria is one of the leading causes of death among African children, claiming one young life every minute.

Cyril Nogier, Gavi’s Senior Country Director for the DRC, praised the Ministry of Health and its partners for prioritizing this vaccine despite numerous competing health challenges, such as the ongoing Mpox response.

 Nogier noted that this development highlights the importance of strengthening health systems to enhance both routine immunization and emergency response capabilities.

The DRC is further intensifying its malaria control efforts through an ambitious 2024–2028 National Strategic Plan.

This plan targets 80% coverage of at-risk populations, incorporating a comprehensive approach that includes distributing next-generation insecticide-treated nets, preventive treatments for pregnant women and infants, and a seasonal malaria chemoprevention pilot.

Enhanced vector control, improved diagnostics, community engagement, and robust surveillance systems are also key components.

The DRC aims to significantly reduce the malaria burden through multisectoral collaboration among health, environment, and education ministries.

WHO remains committed to working closely with countries and partners to expand the rollout of malaria vaccines, ensuring that more children benefit from this crucial preventive tool.

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