• The Republic of Mali has become the 20th African nation to introduce the malaria vaccine, marking a major milestone in global health.

• In 2023, Mali accounted for 3.1% of global malaria cases (8.15 million) and 2.4% of global malaria deaths (14,328), ranking among the 11 countries with the highest malaria burden worldwide.

• The hybrid vaccination approach delivers the first three doses based on age, followed by seasonal booster doses before peak transmission periods.

On World Malaria Day, the Ministry of Health and Social Development of Mali, in partnership with Gavi, the UNICEF, and the World Health Organization (WHO), launched an innovative hybrid malaria vaccination strategy targeting children aged 5 to 36 months. This initiative positions Mali as both the 20th African country to adopt the malaria vaccine and the first globally to implement this hybrid approach.

The hybrid model delivers the initial three doses monthly throughout the year according to age, followed by seasonal fourth and fifth doses in May or June—just before the peak malaria transmission season. This strategy aligns peak vaccine efficacy with periods of highest malaria risk, maximizing protection. Evidence from Mali shows this approach significantly enhances vaccine impact. The R21/Matrix-M vaccine will first be deployed in 19 priority districts across five regions: Kayes, Koulikoro, Mopti, Ségou, and Sikasso. Mali currently has 927,800 doses available for rollout.

According to the WHO’s 2024 World Malaria Report, Mali represented 3.1% of global malaria cases and 2.4% of global malaria deaths in 2023, placing it among the 11 countries with the heaviest malaria burden. Between 2019 and 2023, Mali saw a 1.4 million increase in malaria cases—one of eight countries with a significant rise during this period. The African Region bears the brunt of the global malaria burden, accounting for 94% of cases and 95% of deaths.

During the launch event, Mali’s Minister of Health and Social Development, Colonel Assa Badiallo Touré, praised the collaborative efforts of Gavi, the Global Fund, WHO, and UNICEF in integrating the malaria vaccine into the country’s Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI).

« This milestone reflects the collective dedication of all stakeholders. Our researchers’ contributions through clinical trials were instrumental in securing WHO’s recommendations for RTS,S and R21 vaccines. While this is a significant achievement, our work is not complete—we must scale up these efforts to further reduce malaria’s devastating impact on our population. »

Gavi leads the global malaria vaccination initiative, collaborating with countries and partners to fund vaccine procurement, transportation, and deployment. Through its unique co-financing model, countries contribute progressively to vaccination programs, including malaria. Gavi is now seeking funding for its next five-year strategy (2026–2030).

Dr. Sania Nishtar, Gavi’s CEO, highlighted the significance of this breakthrough: « Mali’s commitment to saving lives and reducing malaria’s devastating effects is commendable. With 20 countries now deploying malaria vaccines and over 24 million doses delivered, sustained funding is critical to ensure equitable access. Gavi remains steadfast in its mission to combat one of Africa’s deadliest diseases. »

UNICEF plays a pivotal role in vaccine distribution, ensuring reliable supply chains and supporting local governments and communities in evidence-based malaria prevention. Dr. Pierre Ngom, UNICEF Representative in Mali, emphasized: « This vaccine is a long-awaited breakthrough after 35 years of research. While it’s a powerful tool, it’s not a standalone solution. We’re leveraging digital tools like U-Report chatbots to combat misinformation and promote vaccination alongside existing preventive measures. »

WHO coordinated pilot evaluations of the RTS,S/AS01 vaccine in Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi through the Malaria Vaccine Implementation Programme (MVIP), co-funded by Gavi, the Global Fund, and UNITAID. Between 2019 and 2023, over two million children received the vaccine, reducing child mortality by 13% among vaccinated age groups. These results supported WHO’s recommendation and prequalification of both malaria vaccines.

Dr. Patrick Kabore, WHO Representative in Mali, noted: « The malaria vaccine is a game-changer in public health—a vital addition to our arsenal against this deadly disease. It complements Mali’s existing prevention strategies, including insecticide-treated nets, seasonal malaria chemoprevention, intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy, and indoor residual spraying. »

Malaria vaccination in Africa

Mali’s hybrid vaccination rollout coincides with Uganda’s recent large-scale deployment, marking a pivotal moment in Africa’s fight against malaria. Since 2023, over 24 million vaccine doses have been delivered across the continent, with countries accelerating their programs. The rapid adoption underscores Africa’s urgent demand for new tools to combat one of its deadliest diseases. The 20 countries that have introduced the vaccine represent over 70% of the global malaria burden.

Early results from countries like Cameroon demonstrate the vaccine’s promising impact, while Nigeria and Chad are scaling up efforts in high-burden areas. By the end of 2025, 13 million additional African children are expected to be protected. Gavi aims to expand coverage to 50 million children by 2030, pending sufficient funding.

Why the hybrid approach in Mali?

Malaria transmission in Mali is highly seasonal, with most cases occurring between July and December. The hybrid model ensures children receive their first three doses year-round based on age, followed by seasonal boosters in May or June—just before the peak transmission period. Evidence shows this strategy enhances vaccine efficacy by aligning protection with the highest risk periods.

Why target children?

Children under five are the most vulnerable to malaria, accounting for over 75% of global malaria deaths. Unlike adults, young children lack partial immunity developed over years of exposure, making them especially susceptible.

Safety and efficacy of malaria vaccines

• RTS,S/AS01 and R21/Matrix-M vaccines are WHO-prequalified and recommended for preventing malaria in children. Both are safe and effective.
• Phase 3 trials showed both vaccines reduced malaria cases by over 50% in the first year, a critical period for child health.
• A fourth dose in the second year extended protection.
• In high-transmission areas, seasonal administration reduced malaria cases by 75%, where half of all child malaria deaths occur.
• The vaccines target P. falciparum, the deadliest malaria parasite in Africa.

For more details, visit the WHO’s malaria vaccine FAQ page.