Burkina Faso releases over ten billion CFA francs to prevent malaria in children
On February 5, 2024, a pivotal step in the fight against malaria in children was taken in Burkina Faso. Under the leadership of President Ibrahim Traoré and with the support of technical and financial partners (TFPs), the country launched an ambitious program aimed at protecting children from this devastating disease.
Through the Ministry of Health and Public Hygiene, led by Dr. Lucien Kargougou, Burkina Faso officially introduced the RTS,S/AS01 malaria vaccine into its routine vaccination program.
This vaccine represents a major breakthrough in the battle against malaria, a disease that has long plagued 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 start of its integration into routine vaccination.
Health Minister Dr. Lucien Kargougou expressed satisfaction with this significant advancement.
He highlighted 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 initial phase, approximately 220,000 children aged 5 to 11 months will benefit from these vital doses.
However, this initiative does not come without a cost. It represents a significant investment of over ten billion FCFA from the Burkinabe state budget and its technical and financial partners.
This sum underscores the government and its partners’ firm commitment to effectively combat malaria in children.
The launch of the RTS,S/AS01 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 the technical and financial partners, the country takes a significant step towards a future where the fight against Malaria in children will be completed and the kids are protected against this debilitating disease.
Olivier TOE
