September 2024 — Over the past two decades, Kenya has made significant strides in reducing malaria deaths among children under five. Despite these advancements, malaria remains a pressing challenge, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. The introduction of the RTS,S/AS01 malaria vaccine marks a pivotal moment in this ongoing battle, demonstrating a 40% reduction in malaria episodes and a notable decrease in severe cases caused by Plasmodium falciparum.

Key Highlights:

• Vaccine Implementation: In 2019, Kenya joined a pilot program initiated by the World Health Organization (WHO) alongside Ghana and Malawi, aiming to assess the vaccine’s safety and efficacy. This initiative is especially crucial for regions like the Lake Basin, known for high malaria prevalence.

• Social and Behavior Change (SBC) Strategy: The success of the vaccine rollout is largely attributed to a comprehensive SBC strategy. This approach emphasizes community participation and strategic planning, ensuring that health authorities effectively address barriers to vaccine acceptance.

Components of the SBC Strategy:

1. Evidence Gathering: Continuous collection of public perceptions helps tailor communication strategies that resonate with the community, addressing misconceptions and building trust.

2. Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborating with community leaders and influencers amplifies messaging and promotes vaccine acceptance. Monthly meetings of the Advocacy, Communication, and Social Mobilization (ACSM) working group have been instrumental in monitoring and implementing SBC interventions.

3. Role Emphasis: Recognizing the contributions of vaccinators and community health workers fosters trust in the healthcare system and motivates frontline workers.

4. Monitoring and Social Listening: Keeping track of media coverage and public discussions allows health authorities to counter misinformation and provide accurate information promptly.

5. Scenario Planning: Preparing for unforeseen challenges ensures that communication strategies remain effective and responsive.

Results and Impact:

The results of the malaria vaccine initiative have been promising. National malaria prevalence decreased from 11% in 2010 to 6% in 2020, with significant improvements in the Lake Endemic Region. In March 2023, Kenya expanded healthcare access to 133,000 more infants annually, providing free vaccines at all immunizing health facilities across 51 sub-counties.

The integration of the malaria vaccine into the existing immunization program has facilitated widespread access, while community involvement has driven demand and sustained uptake rates. This initiative not only promotes the malaria vaccine but also reinforces the use of other malaria interventions, ensuring a comprehensive approach to disease prevention.

As Kenya continues to combat malaria, the trust established in the healthcare system through effective communication and community engagement paves the way for future public health advancements.