As of 13 August 2025, 21 countries in Africa have introduced malaria vaccines into their routine immunisation programmes with Gavi support.
As of 13 August 2025, 21 countries in Africa have introduced malaria vaccines into their routine immunisation programmes with Gavi support.
In December 2021, the Gavi Board made history by approving funding to support the roll-out of the world’s first malaria vaccine – nearly 35 years in development – in sub-Saharan Africa in 2022–2025. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the vaccine is estimated to save 1 life for every 200 children vaccinated.
Consistent funding and investment are crucial to ensure this new, vital tool reaches equally all those who need it. As long as resources are available, Gavi pledges its continued commitment and support to the fight against one of Africa’s deadliest diseases.
Children aged under five years are at the greatest risk of dying from malaria and account for more than 75% of the global deaths from the disease. Unlike adults, young children have not had the opportunity to develop partial immunity through years of exposure, making them particularly at risk.
In 2023 alone, malaria caused 597,000 deaths globally, and 432,000 child deaths in Africa – highlighting the urgent need to protect our youngest and most vulnerable. The African region shoulders the heaviest malaria burden globally, accounting for about 94% of all cases and 95% of deaths, according to WHO data.
As of August 2025, over 25 million doses have been delivered to 21 endemic countries in Africa which have introduced malaria vaccines into routine immunisation with Gavi support:
Malaria vaccine safety and effectiveness: Both the RTS,S/AS01 and R21/Matrix-M vaccines are prequalified and recommended by WHO to prevent malaria in children and are safe and effective.
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