South Sudan receives first shipment of malaria vaccine to fight deadly disease

JUBA – South Sudan on Friday received its first shipment of 645,000 R21 malaria vaccine doses, a boost in the fight against the mosquito-borne disease that remains a major killer of children.

The vaccines arrived at Juba International Airport from the UK with support from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, UNICEF, the World Health Organization (WHO) and other partners.

Health Minister Yolanda Awel Deng said the vaccines would be distributed to the 28 counties with the highest malaria burden.

“Malaria is a major concern for our country. We are committed to reducing the impact of malaria and improving the health outcomes for our children,” Deng told reporters.

WHO Representative for South Sudan Dr. Humphrey Karamagi called the vaccine introduction a “pivotal development.”

“This milestone not only signifies progress in the battle against malaria but also underscores the collective commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of children in South Sudan and beyond,” Karamagi said.

UNICEF Deputy Representative Obia Achieng emphasized the vaccines’ effectiveness in protecting children.

“The vaccine that we are going to have today is going to be transformative, it’s going to transform the healthcare that we are providing to the children of South Sudan,” Achieng said.

Malaria is the leading cause of death among children in South Sudan, with an estimated 7,630 cases and 18 deaths daily.

In 2022, the country recorded an estimated 2.8 million cases and 6,680 deaths.