Religious leaders across Uganda have pledged their support for the nationwide malaria vaccine rollout, recognizing their crucial role in boosting public trust and encouraging uptake.
Their commitment follows a meeting organized by Faith for Family Health Initiative (3FHi) in partnership with the Ministry of Health and the Interfaith Alliance for Health.
The engagement aimed to equip religious leaders with accurate information and advocacy tools to promote the malaria vaccine and routine immunization programs.
Leaders were encouraged to integrate vaccine awareness into their sermons, counter misinformation, and motivate parents to complete their children’s full immunization schedule.
Malaria’s Heavy Toll in Uganda
Malaria remains a major public health challenge in Uganda, contributing to 5% of global cases and 3% of malaria-related deaths. The country loses an estimated 16 people daily to malaria, including 10 children under five.
To combat this, the Ministry of Health has secured three million doses for the first phase, targeting 1.28 million children in 105 high-risk districts.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is set to officially launch the malaria vaccination program on April 2 in Apac District, one of the hardest-hit regions.
Vaccine’s Role in Prevention
Dr. Jimmy Opigo, Director of the Malaria Control Programme at the Ministry of Health, highlighted the vaccine’s importance in reducing severe cases and deaths.
“The vaccine does not replace mosquito nets, indoor spraying, or treatment—it complements them,” Opigo explained. “It helps the immune system recognize and respond to the malaria parasite early, preventing severe illness and hospitalization.”
The vaccine requires a four-dose schedule: the first dose at six months, followed by doses at seven, eight, and 18 months. Dr. Opigo urged parents to ensure their children complete the full schedule for maximum protection.
Faith Leaders Take a Stand
Dr. Diana Atwine, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health, urged religious leaders to counter misinformation and encourage vaccine acceptance.
“The Ministry of Health is a small section of people, but you, religious leaders, interact with the public daily. The population trusts you,” she said.
Archbishop Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu of the Church of Uganda, represented by Rt. Rev. Moses Banja, framed vaccine advocacy as both a health priority and a moral duty.
“The Bible reminds us in Proverbs 22:6 to train a child in the way he should go. This extends beyond spiritual guidance to their physical well-being,” he stated.
Apostle Dr. Joseph Serwadda called on the government to address religious sects opposing medical interventions.
“Some groups refuse medicine and actively fight health initiatives. We must ensure that every child in our congregations has access to life-saving vaccines,” he affirmed.
A Call to Action
Hon. Margaret Muhanga, Minister of State for Primary Health Care, emphasized the critical role of faith leaders in vaccine mobilization.
“The public barely listens to politicians, but they trust you. We are relying on you to lead this fight against malaria,” she said.
Jackie Katana, Executive Director of Faith for Family Health Initiative, noted that Uganda’s high religious adherence presents a unique opportunity for vaccine advocacy.
“With 98% of Ugandans identifying as religious, faith leaders can drive demand and ensure no child is unprotected,” she said.
As the April 2nd launch approaches, religious leaders have vowed to spread awareness and encourage uptake across the country. Their collaboration with health officials signals a united front in the fight against malaria, bringing Uganda one step closer to eliminating the disease by 2030.
