Togo: African pioneer in the rollout of the R21 malaria vaccine

Togo has once again distinguished itself on the African health scene by becoming the first country on the continent to roll out the R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine nationwide. This initiative marks a turning point in the fight against a disease that remains one of the leading causes of child mortality in Africa.

According to the announced programme, the vaccine will be administered in four doses to children aged five, six, seven and fifteen months. This gradual approach will strengthen their immunity from the earliest stages of life, when they are most vulnerable to malaria.

Approximately 269,000 children will be involved in the first phase of the campaign.

They will be spread across the country’s 39 health districts, demonstrating the Togolese authorities’ commitment to covering the entire territory equitably and effectively.

The choice of the R21 vaccine reflects the Togolese government’s determination to put science and innovation at the service of public health.

This vaccine, developed with the support of the international scientific community, has demonstrated significant effectiveness in reducing malaria cases in children.

Kodjovi Mkafui