The World Health Organisation (WHO) has stated that vaccines prevent about 1.8 million deaths in Africa every year. However, it also warned that an estimated 6.7 million children across the continent have never received a single routine vaccine.
The disclosure was contained in a statement shared, Sunday.
In the statement marking African Vaccination Week 2026, the WHO Regional Director for Africa, Mohamed Janabi, said the commemoration highlights the importance of immunisation at all stages of life.
He noted that vaccines protect not only children but also adolescents, adults and older persons, adding that immunisation is a lifelong public health investment.
Janabi added that every year, vaccines prevent around 1.8 million deaths in Africa, adding that a saved life is more than a number, but represents families kept whole and communities able to thrive.
African Vaccination Week was endorsed in September 2010 through resolution AFR/RC60/14 to strengthen immunisation programmes in the African Region.
It is observed annually in the last week of April, alongside World Immunisation Week 2026.
The week aims to highlight the collective actions needed to strengthen immunisation systems across the region, improve timely vaccine uptake and protect people of all ages against preventable diseases.
It also seeks to keep immunisation high on national and regional health agendas through advocacy and partnerships, while supporting the delivery of other lifesaving health interventions.
Observed from 24 to 30 April, African Vaccination Week 2026 is marked under the theme “For Every Generation, Vaccines Work,” emphasising vaccination across the life course.
The WHO said since 2000, about 500 million African children have been protected through routine immunisation, noting that vaccines are a lifelong investment in health and development.
In addition, the health body noted that countries across the continent are increasingly adopting innovations such as digital health records, solar-powered cold chain systems, and community-led outreach to improve vaccine coverage.
The agency also highlighted the introduction of malaria vaccines in 25 African countries as a step in addressing one of the continent’s leading causes of illness and death.
In December 2025, the African Regional Verification Commission confirmed that Cabo Verde, Mauritius, and Seychelles had eliminated measles and rubella.
The WHO described the development as proof that a measles-free Africa is achievable with sustained vaccination coverage and strong disease surveillance systems.
The organisation said immunisation efforts since 1988 have prevented an estimated 1.57 million deaths from polio and averted paralysis in more than 20 million people. (Premium Times)
