Ouagadougou: Health Minister Dr. Robert Lucien Kargougou reassured Burkinabe people on Friday of the effectiveness of the malaria vaccine. He spoke at the official nationwide launch of the malaria vaccination program for children aged 5 to 23 months, held at the Ramessim Health Center with Social Promotion (CSPS), Pouytenga health district.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Minister Kargougou stated, “I would like to reassure the population that these are safe and effective vaccines.” He noted the involvement of Burkinabe researchers in the development of the vaccines (RTS, S and R21), which have received approval from relevant international and national authorities.
Malaria remains a significant public health issue in Burkina Faso, with several million cases diagnosed annually. In 2024, the country recorded 10,805,020 cases, resulting in approximately 3,523 deaths, including 2,206 involving children under the age of five.
In response, the government has independently decided to include vaccination as a new strategy in combating the disease, as stated by Dr. Kargougou. The nationwide vaccination rollout aims to reach 627,235 children across 43 health districts. The initial phase, launched in February 2024 with the RTS,S vaccine, covered 27 districts. Now, all 70 health districts in the country will offer this vaccination free of charge to the targeted age group.
Minister Kargougou urged the community, including parents, leaders, health administrators, and the media, to collaborate in ensuring the success of this national initiative.
UNICEF Representative in Burkina Faso, Dr. Chantal Umutoni, highlighted the technical and financial support provided by partners to the government, covering logistics, vaccine procurement, transport, storage, and capacity building through training and supervision.
The vaccination campaign required an investment exceeding 7 billion CFA francs from the state and its partners, as mentioned by the minister.