Uganda Targets Malaria Elimination by 2035 with Major New Interventions

Uganda has launched a new push to completely eliminate malaria by the year 2035. The Ministry of Health, through its National Malaria Control Division, is shifting focus from simply reducing cases to fully ending malaria-related deaths and infections, especially in areas where the disease is still common.

Dr. Jimmy Opigo, the program manager, explained that one of the key priorities now is to identify and treat people who carry the malaria parasite but don’t show symptoms—known as asymptomatic carriers. “These individuals can unknowingly spread the disease, so we must find and treat them early,” he said. Their household members and close contacts will also be tested to stop further spread.

This renewed effort was announced during World Malaria Day, which Uganda marked on April 25 at Kaunda Grounds in Gulu City under the theme “Eliminate Malaria Now.”

Malaria remains one of Uganda’s biggest health problems. According to the World Malaria Report 2024:

• In 2023, over 12.5 million people were infected—making up 4.8% of all cases worldwide.

• Uganda ranked 3rd in Africa for malaria burden, behind Nigeria and DRC.

• 15,363 people died from malaria in Uganda in 2023, slightly down from 16,416 in 2022.

• Malaria caused 33% of outpatient visits, 22% of hospital admissions, and 6% of deaths, especially in young children.

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1. Malaria Vaccination Campaign

On April 2, 2025, Uganda became the 19th African country to introduce a malaria vaccine, with support from Gavi, WHO, UNICEF, PATH, and CHAI. The campaign began in Apac District and is now the largest malaria vaccine rollout in the continent so far.

The vaccine, R21/Matrix-M, is being given in four doses at 6, 7, 8, and 18 months. It targets 1.1 million children under two years in 105 districts where malaria is common. Dr. Opigo said this move is a step towards saving children’s lives while preparing the system for future vaccines that will protect all age groups.

2. Comprehensive Mosquito and Parasite Control

According to Dr. Opigo, the government is now using a comprehensive mosquito control plan, from targeting breeding sites to household protection.

“We can’t only rely on mosquito nets. We must destroy mosquito habitats too,” he said.

This approach is supported by the following efforts:

• Treated mosquito nets distributed across the country

• Indoor spraying of insecticides in 20 districts (West Nile, Teso, Bukedi, and Busoga)

• Seasonal malaria prevention for kids under 5 in nine districts of Karamoja

• Larviciding (killing mosquito larvae) in 11 districts

• Integrated case management in 81 districts, focusing on testing and treating children under five

• Malaria testing and treatment services in both public and private health facilities

Uganda has made real progress. Malaria cases have dropped from 42% in 2009, to 19% in 2014/15, and then to 9.1% in 2018/19. Dr. Jane Nabakooza, a senior officer in the Ministry of Health, said this is because of long-term efforts like promoting treated mosquito nets and effective medical care.

Uganda is now aiming not just to fight malaria but to end it. With vaccines, new strategies, and stronger health systems, the country hopes to protect future generations and eliminate this deadly disease once and for all.