Lilongwe – The Government of Malawi, through the Ministry of Health, officially launched the National Immunization Strategy (NIS) 2025–2030, a bold initiative designed to increase vaccine coverage, combat preventable diseases, and support the country’s commitment to Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The launch coincides with African Vaccination Week, celebrated from April 24 to 30 under the theme: “Immunization for All is Humanly Possible.”

The launch ceremony, held at Kawale Health Centre in Lilongwe, was presided over by Minister of Health Hon. Khumbize Kandodo Chiponda, MP, who also introduced the National Immunization Field Manual, which will serve as a key reference for health workers delivering vaccines across the country.

Speaking at the event, the Minister emphasized the importance of the new strategy in reaching every Malawian with life-saving immunization services, regardless of location or background. 

“With the launch of this strategy, we reaffirm Malawi’s commitment to safeguarding the health of our children and communities. This is about equity, access, and building a healthier, more resilient Malawi,” she said.

The strategy sets out a six-pillar framework to guide immunization efforts nationwide. It focuses on strengthening programme management, planning, and financing to ensure better coordination and long-term sustainability. It also aims to reduce zero-dose and under-immunized populations by 95% from 2022 levels through improved service delivery, particularly in remote areas. 

A key goal is to achieve over 90% national and 80% district-level immunization coverage by 2030 by reinforcing vaccine supply chains, expanding cold chain infrastructure, and introducing new vaccines.

Additionally, the strategy prioritizes robust disease surveillance and vaccine safety monitoring to maintain public trust. It addresses vaccine hesitancy through targeted advocacy and communication, while enhancing data systems for better tracking, evaluation, and decision-making.

To fully implement the plan, US$424.2 million is needed through 2030, with 82% allocated to vaccines, logistics, and cold chain systems. However, there is a US$208.1 million funding gap. The government has pledged US$85 million, calling on local and international partners to help close the remaining shortfall.

Malawi’s track record in immunization dates to the 1990s, with major milestones including the introduction of the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, rotavirus vaccine, and, notably, becoming one of the first countries to roll out the malaria vaccine in 2019. 

The Gavi Senior Country Manager applauded the strategy launch, alluding that it is a vital step in protecting Malawi’s children, and reaffirmed GAVI’s support in vaccination programs.

Despite progress, challenges remain. Some children still miss key vaccinations due to geographic, social, or economic barriers. The NIS addresses these issues by leveraging a committed health workforce and ensuring that immunization services reach every corner of the country without discrimination.

“The launch of Malawi’s National Immunization Strategy represents a bold and comprehensive approach to protecting communities and cutting zero-dose and under-immunized cases by 95% by 2030,” said WHO Representative Dr Neema Kimambo. 

“With a focus on equity and quality, Malawi is setting a strong foundation to eliminate vaccine-preventable diseases.” 

UNICEF praised the strategy as a vital step in protecting Malawi’s children, while the World Health Organization highlighted the plan’s focus on equity and quality as a model for immunization progress.

Malawi, by this achievement, has demonstrated that it is humanly possible to have fewer diseases and more life if people – and their communities – protect themselves and their loved ones from vaccine-preventable diseases through immunization.