Gulu, Uganda: Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Health, on Thursday launched a strategic partnership with Ker Kwaro Acholi to scale up the fight against malaria in the Acholi sub-region, leveraging the cultural institution’s influence to drive community awareness and vaccine acceptance.
The campaign aims to reduce the region’s malaria burden by enlisting clan leaders as frontline mobilizers. The move follows alarming statistics showing that malaria remains one of the deadliest diseases in Uganda, with 5,700 deaths in 2023, 5,002 of which were children and adolescents under 17.
During a high-level meeting held at the palace of the Paramount Chief in Gulu, Rwot David Onen Acana II rallied clan chiefs from across Acholi to intensify sensitization efforts in their respective communities.
“Let us join hands to kick malaria out of Acholi. I appeal to each of you to return to your clans and spread this vital message to your people. Together, we can ensure a malaria-free Acholi region,” Rwot Acana urged.
The initiative also aims to promote the rollout of the R21 malaria vaccine, which has demonstrated up to 77% efficacy in clinical trials. The vaccine is specifically designed to combat Plasmodium falciparum, the most dangerous strain of the malaria parasite.
Dr. George Upenytho Duguman, the Commissioner for Community Health Services at the Ministry of Health, said over 2.1 million doses of the vaccine will be distributed across 105 districts, with the aim of preventing at least 800,000 new cases among children.
Dr. Duguman emphasized the importance of a multifaceted strategy, including radio sensitization campaigns, to ensure community buy-in and increase the reach of the vaccination exercise. “The fight against malaria is not just a health issue, but a development imperative. We need everyone involved, cultural leaders, politicians, and religious leaders, to make this a success,” he said.
The partnership, DailyExpress understands, will also extend beyond malaria control, incorporating broader health interventions such as mobile medical camps, vaccination drives, and routine preventive care across Acholi.
Gulu City Woman MP Betty Aol Ocan welcomed the initiative, saying it would reduce maternal and child mortality significantly. “Vaccinating pregnant women and children will save lives. This vaccine is a timely intervention,” Aol said, urging communities to also prioritize environmental hygiene to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds.
Rwot Acana reiterated the crucial role of local leadership in demystifying the vaccine and reshaping community perceptions around immunization. “We must build trust and lead by example. Our voices matter.”
According to the World Health Organization, Uganda recorded over 16 million malaria cases and 2,793 deaths in 2023, with children under five bearing the brunt of the disease.
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