Burkina Faso releases over ten billion CFA francs to prevent malaria in children
On February 5, 2024, a crucial step in the fight against malaria in children was achieved in Burkina Faso. Under the leadership of President Ibrahim Traoré and with the support of technical and financial partners (TFP), the country launched an ambitious program aimed at protecting children against this devastating disease.
Through the Ministry of Health and Public Hygiene, led by Dr. Lucien Kargougou, Burkina Faso officially introduced the RTS, S/SO1 malaria vaccine into its routine vaccination program.
This vaccine represents a major breakthrough in the fight against malaria, a disease that has long afflicted Burkina Faso, being the leading cause of mortality, hospitalization, and morbidity in the country. With this new initiative, the Burkinabe government and its partners seek to reverse this alarming trend.
The national launch of the malaria vaccine took place in Koudougou, marking the effective beginning of its introduction into routine vaccination. Health Minister Dr. Lucien Kargougou expressed satisfaction with this major advancement. He emphasized that over 800.000 doses have been acquired to meet immediate needs, with a total of nearly 3 million doses planned for the year 2024.
In this first phase, nearly 220.000 children aged 5 to 11 months will benefit from these vital doses. However, this initiative does not come without cost. Indeed, it represents a significant investment of over ten billion FCFA from the Burkinabe state budget and its technical and financial partners (TFP). This amount demonstrates the firm commitment of the government and its partners to effectively combat malaria in children.
The launch of the RTS, S/SO1 malaria vaccine marks a turning point in the fight against malaria in Burkina Faso. Thanks to the commitment of President Ibrahim Traoré, the Minister of Health and Public Hygiene, and technical and financial partners, the country is taking a significant step towards a future where children are protected against this debilitating disease.
