The Ministry of Health has engaged cultural institutions across the country to rally support for malaria vaccination, which is set to begin on April 1 for children between six months and one year.
Officials from the Ministry met with leaders from Buganda, Rwenzururu in Kasese, Bagwere in Mbale, and the Lugbara in Arua, seeking their support in encouraging their communities to participate in the vaccination exercise.
During a discussion with Buganda Kingdom officials, the Commissioner for Health Services Health Promotion and Education, Dr. Richard Kabanda, emphasized Buganda’s central role in the nation’s economy. He highlighted how the kingdom, as a hub attracting people from all corners of the country, also faces the risk of increased disease transmission due to high movement.
“Buganda is a crossroads. People come here to trade, to work, and to build their lives. But with this movement, diseases can spread. We must work together cultural leaders, health officials, and communities to prevent outbreaks and promote health,” he stated.
Dr. Kabanda spoke about malaria’s severe impact on vulnerable groups, particularly children under five years old, whose immune systems are not strong enough to fight the disease effectively.
“Malaria affects us all, but it is our children who suffer the most,” he noted.
He outlined the government’s ongoing efforts to combat malaria, including the introduction of a vaccine for children starting at six months of age. This vaccine, he explained, is a crucial addition to other preventive measures such as mosquito nets and antimalarial medications.
However, despite its life-saving potential, the vaccine faces challenges due to misinformation, particularly on social media.
“There are falsehoods circulating. Some claim the vaccine is unsafe or unnecessary. As cultural leaders and parents, we have a responsibility to protect our children and to counter these myths with facts. We must ensure that our communities understand the importance of this vaccine and all other interventions,” he urged.
Dr. Kabanda emphasized the importance of completing the vaccination schedule, particularly the fourth dose, which many mothers struggle to adhere to but is essential for full protection.
The cultural leaders acknowledged their unique role in shaping public perception and committed to spreading the message. Recognizing that malaria prevention was not only a health issue but also a matter of protecting their future generations, they vowed to use every opportunity community gatherings, cultural events, and casual conversations—to raise awareness about the vaccine and other preventive measures.
In Nebbi, the Alur cultural institution, through its Minister of Health, Dr. Amos Nyathirombo, expressed appreciation for the Ministry of Health’s outreach efforts, particularly in addressing malaria, which remains a major challenge in the region.
The Alur leaders pledged to work closely with the Ministry to ensure a healthier kingdom, reaffirming their commitment to the malaria vaccine rollout.
The Assistant Commissioner for Health Communication, Dr. Ronald Miria Ocaatre, emphasized that cultural leaders play a critical role in disease prevention. He highlighted the health challenges facing Uganda, including Ebola, Mpox, and the ongoing struggle against malaria.
Dr. Ocaatre urged the leaders to encourage their communities to embrace the malaria vaccine as a crucial step toward disease prevention.
In response, the cultural leaders assured the Ministry of their full support, promising to use their influence to dispel myths and ensure a successful vaccination campaign.
