October 27, 2025-The Ministry of Health has launched the Malaria Vaccine into the Routine Immunization Schedule and the Primary Health Care (PHC) Strategy 2025–2031.
In a speech read on his behalf by Luapula Province Minister, Engineer Nason Musonda in Mansa today, Health Minister, Elijah Muchima announced that the vaccine will be introduced in phases, targeting areas with moderate to high malaria incidence.
“These include 83 districts in the northern circuit. Districts with low malaria incidence, mainly in parts of Lusaka, Central, Eastern and Southern provinces will not be included in the initial rollout,” Mr. Muchima said.
He added that the first phase will target over 250,000 children aged 6–8 months, with plans to expand coverage to children up to 11 months. The minister emphasized that the vaccine is meant to complement, not replace existing malaria interventions.
Mr. Muchima also highlighted that the launch of the PHC Strategy 2025–2031 reaffirms the government’s commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage and providing accessible, quality healthcare for all Zambians.
Speaking at the same event, Churches Health Association of Zambia (CHAZ) representative Yorum Siame pledged Civil Society Organizations’ (CSOs) support to help communities understand that the vaccine complements existing measures.
And UNICEF Chief of Health Zambia,Dr. Akinafu Asfaw,commended Zambia for launching the vaccine and reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting effective immunization.
In a vote of thanks, His Royal Highness Chief Chisunka pledged that traditional leaders would use their collective influence to sensitize communities, expressing optimism that people will understand and embrace the vaccine.
