By Richard Onapatum
Apac, Uganda – April 2, 2025 – The Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Karenga District, Ocailap Geoffrey Filbert, joined national leaders in Apac District today for the official launch of Uganda’s malaria vaccine rollout.
This historic initiative aims to combat malaria, one of the leading causes of illness and death in the country, particularly among children under five.
Representing Karamoja Region at the high-level event were Kotido District Chairman Lotee Paul Komol, also known as Kacheri Boy, and the District Health Officer (DHO) of Kotido.
They reaffirmed Karamoja leaders’ commitment to ensuring the vaccine’s successful implementation, emphasizing its significance for high-risk regions like theirs.
Speaking at the event, RDC Ocailap commended the government’s efforts in healthcare and acknowledged President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s leadership in bringing the vaccine to Uganda.
“This vaccine rollout demonstrates the government’s dedication to safeguarding Ugandans, especially children most vulnerable to malaria,” Ocailap stated. “Karamoja fully supports this initiative, and we will ensure that every eligible child is vaccinated.”
He stressed that beyond saving lives, the vaccine would ease the financial burden on families who spend substantial resources on malaria treatment. He also urged stakeholders to invest in continuous health education to increase vaccine acceptance and sustain other malaria prevention measures.
Lotee Paul Komol, representing Karamoja district leaders, highlighted the longstanding struggle against malaria in the region and the transformative impact of the RTS,S vaccine.
“This vaccine offers new hope for Karamoja, where malaria has long devastated communities,” he said.
“As leaders, we pledge to mobilize our people, ensure accessibility, and collaborate with health authorities for widespread coverage.”
He further called for additional investments in healthcare infrastructure, stating that sustainable solutions require not just vaccines but also improved health services, medical supplies, and continued malaria prevention strategies.
Health officials at the event echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of community sensitization to encourage high vaccine uptake. They urged parents and caregivers to take advantage of the free immunization services available at health centers nationwide.
With RTS,S set to be administered in four doses to children under five, stakeholders remain optimistic that the program will significantly reduce malaria-related deaths and improve public health.
Leaders from Karamoja and beyond have pledged full support for mobilizing communities and ensuring the program’s success.
The launch marks a major milestone in Uganda’s fight against malaria, bringing renewed hope for a healthier future.