Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja has described the introduction of the malaria vaccine in Uganda’s routine immunization program as a “game changer.”

Nabbanja, who on Wednesday represented President Yoweri Museveni at the national launch of the malaria vaccine in Apac district, said that the malaria vaccine introduction is a bold step toward liberating Uganda from the heavy burden of malaria, “a disease that has for too long robbed our
children of their futures, strained our health system, and hindered our socio-economic progress.”

“It is expected to prevent at least 800 cases of severe malaria among children every day and ease the financial burden on families, saving them approximately UGX 15,000 per case that would have been spent on treating severe malaria,” Nabbanja said.

Uganda’s launch of the malaria vaccine into its routine immunization program is the largest malaria vaccine rollout in terms of geographical coverage and target population, reaching 107 high and moderate malaria transmission districts. 

Vaccination remains one of the most cost-effective and life-saving interventions, protecting children from preventable diseases. 

Malaria has been one of Uganda’s biggest health challenges, accounting for nearly 30% of outpatient visits and 20% of hospital deaths, with children under five bearing the greatest burden.

Nabbanja told parents that the vaccine has been proven to significantly reduce severe malaria cases and hospitalizations.

The malaria vaccine will be administered in four doses to children starting at six months, followed by doses at seven, eight, and eighteen months.