South Sudan has begun rolling out the R21 malaria vaccine, a move health officials say will shield thousands of young lives from one of the country’s deadliest diseases.
“Every child deserves a childhood free from malaria. The R21 vaccine will protect more children from sickness and death, enabling them to survive, thrive, and shape the future of this nation,” said Noala Skinner, UNICEF Representative to South Sudan, during the launch ceremony.
The vaccine will be administered in four doses, the first three at 5, 6, and 7 months of age, and a final dose at 18 months.
The last dose will be given alongside the country’s planned introduction of a second measles vaccine in August 2025.
Targeting children aged 5 to 23 months, the Ministry of Health is urging parents and caregivers to complete the full vaccination schedule for maximum protection.
Malaria remains one of South Sudan’s leading causes of death among children under five.
The vaccine rollout is part of a broader national strategy supported by UNICEF, the World Health Organization (WHO), Gavi, and the Global Fund.
Alongside immunization, the government is stepping up prevention efforts, including the planned distribution of 9.5 million insecticide-treated mosquito nets in 2026, aimed at cutting household transmission rates.
Health authorities are calling on families nationwide to visit the nearest health facility and ensure children are vaccinated within the recommended age range.
