Mali Launches Malaria Vaccine Rollout During World Malaria Day Celebrations
Historic Vaccination Campaign Begins
In a landmark event marking World Malaria Day and National Malaria Week, Mali’s Minister of Health and Development, Dr. Colonel Assa Badiallo Touré, alongside Education Minister Professor Amadou Sy Savané, administered the first doses of the malaria vaccine on April 25, 2025, in Kalaban-Coro.
Vaccine Rollout Strategy
The initial phase targets 19 health districts across Kayes, Koulikoro, Sikasso, Ségou, and Mopti regions, with plans to expand to 33 additional districts in 2026. This makes Mali the 20th country worldwide to implement malaria vaccination.
Addressing a National Health Crisis
Malaria remains Mali’s leading cause of morbidity (39.4%) and mortality (25%), disproportionately affecting pregnant women and children under five. The 2025 campaign theme, “Malaria stops with us: reinvest, reimagine, revive”, reflects the nation’s commitment to combating this disease.
International Support and Commitments
UNICEF hailed the vaccine introduction as a breakthrough after 35 years of research. GAVI representative Thierry Vincent pledged continued support while emphasizing preventive measures like mosquito nets. WHO officials confirmed the vaccine’s safety and effectiveness.
Government’s Comprehensive Approach
Minister Touré acknowledged existing strategies’ limitations and emphasized the vaccine’s role as an innovative tool. “We are determined to implement vaccination to boost our disease reduction efforts,” she stated, calling for collective support to ensure success.
Additional Health Investments
The ceremony included the handover of seven ambulances to medical facilities across Mali, demonstrating the government’s broader health system strengthening efforts.
Cultural Celebration of Progress
The event concluded with educational performances, including malaria awareness skits and cultural presentations by local artists, symbolizing community engagement in the fight against malaria.
Source: Bamada.net