Nayala: The Toma Public Reading and Cultural Animation Center (CELPAC) hosted an advocacy workshop on Thursday focusing on introducing the malaria vaccine into the vaccination schedule for children aged 5 to 23 months in the health district. The meeting, chaired by the Secretary General of Nayala Province and representing the High Commissioner, brought together local authorities, community leaders, health workers, head nurses, and COGES managers of health facilities.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the objective was to mobilize all stakeholders in the province to succeed in this new stage in the fight against malaria. Mr. Diallo urged participants to fully commit to ensuring the success of the vaccine rollout, emphasizing the importance of mobilization and awareness. He also acknowledged the efforts of healthcare professionals who are maintaining public services amidst security challenges.
Samate Tiere, head of vaccination prevention, highlighted the crucial support required from authorities, associations, the media, and health workers. He stressed the necessity of dispelling fears and rumors surrounding vaccination and urged local leaders to communicate clear messages in places of worship and within communities.
For the district health management team (ECD), the arrival of this vaccine represents a significant milestone. It complements existing prevention methods in a context where malaria remains the leading cause of consultations and mortality among children under five. The vaccination schedule includes four doses for children aged 5 to 23 months, administered at 5, 6, 7, and 15 months.
Participants pledged to spread the message to ensure that every eligible child receives this additional protection. Launched in February 2024 with the RTS,S vaccine, the first phase of malaria vaccination covered 27 districts, with a national rollout occurring on August 15, 2025. In 2024, Burkina Faso recorded over 10.8 million cases of malaria, resulting in 3,523 deaths, including 2,206 children under five years of age.