WHO announces funding to roll-out for first-ever malaria vaccine in Africa

The World Health Organization on Thursday unveiled its funding programme for the roll-out of the RTS,S/AS01 (RTS,S) malaria vaccine to be powered by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.

On Thursday, the global health body, alongside Gavi and other health specialists, discussed the importance of the malaria vaccine to Africa.

The online press briefing was led by Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa.

“The news of Gavi’s multi-million dollar funding to countries, to expand access to the world’s only malaria vaccine, marks a key advance in the fight against one of Africa’s most severe public health threats,” Dr Moeti said.

“This financial support from Gavi provides a landmark opportunity for countries to introduce, or further, the rollout of the malaria vaccine. It will initially benefit Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi – the three countries that began piloting delivery of the vaccine in 2019 – before being expanded to other eligible endemic countries.”

Dr Moeti was joined by Dr Akpaka Kalu, Team Lead, Strategic Planning and Policy, Communicable and Noncommunicable Diseases Cluster; Dr Opeayo Ogundiran, Epidemiology Pillar Lead for the Regional COVID-19 Response; Dr Phionah Atuhebwe, Medical Officer, New Vaccines; and Dr Solomon Woldetsadik, Emergency Response Officer.

Gavi has made available $155.7 million for the 2022–2025 period. The program has also been supported by a $56 million investment through a “de-risk” agreement with manufacturer GSK and innovative financing partner MedAccess.