• Togo launches R21 malaria vaccine nationwide
• 269,000 children targeted across all 39 health districts
• Togo is the 22nd African nation to adopt R21 vaccine

Togo has launched the R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine into its national immunization program, the Health Ministry announced in a press conference on Tuesday. The initiative, which began on September 1, 2025, aims to protect approximately 269,000 children in its initial phase, covering all 39 of the country's health districts simultaneously.

The decision is a significant step in the nation's fight against malaria, a major health challenge, particularly for children under five. Health and Public Hygiene Minister Tchin Darré stated that the move reflects the government's goal to "liberate communities and families from the burden of malaria by 2030 so they can contribute effectively to the country's development," according to a statement from the World Health Organization (WHO).

This program is a collaborative effort involving the Togolese government, the WHO, UNICEF, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and other technical and financial partners.

Malaria remains endemic across all regions of Togo, with cases surging during the rainy season due to the proliferation of mosquitoes. In 2022, children under five accounted for 64% of confirmed malaria cases, 32% of outpatient consultations, and 53% of hospitalizations in Togo. Hospital mortality for this age group was 65%, making them the primary target of this vaccination campaign.

The Togolese government has invested significantly in malaria control, including a $271.7 million budget for the National Malaria Control Plan. With this introduction, Togo becomes the 22nd country in Africa to incorporate the R21/Matrix-M vaccine into its national immunization schedule.

Ingrid Haffiny (Intern)

Adapted in English by Mouka Mezonlin