Uganda’s routine immunisation programme achieved strong results in 2025. In fact, most vaccines reached over 90% national coverage. Moreover, this success came even as the country battled measles and Mpox outbreaks.
The Ministry of Health called vaccination a core part of Uganda’s public health strategy. Specifically, they described it as one of the safest and most cost-effective ways to protect children. During 2025, the routine immunisation programme covered 14 diseases. These include polio, tuberculosis, hepatitis B, yellow fever, measles, malaria, and cervical cancer.
A major milestone was the April 2025 rollout of the malaria vaccine. Notably, Uganda launched it in 107 high-burden districts—the largest such effort worldwide. By year-end, more than one million children received the first dose, hitting 101% of the target. Furthermore, about 67% got the second dose and 47% the third. Therefore, health officials urge parents to complete all four doses for full protection.
In addition, Uganda adopted a single-dose HPV vaccine for 10-year-old girls in 2025. This follows new World Health Organization guidance. Cervical cancer kills over 4,000 Ugandan women each year and remains the top cancer among women. Because a single dose simplifies delivery, coverage improves significantly. Dr. Diana Atwine, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health, said, “Once we immunize all 10-year-old girls, the whole generation is protected.”
Yellow fever control also advanced. Consequently, the final phase of mass vaccination ended in 2025. Over 30 million Ugandans have now received the shot. Since the vaccine gives lifelong immunity, it is now part of the routine immunisation programme at nine months of age.
However, measles outbreaks still occurred in 66 districts during 2025. There were 896 confirmed cases and suspected deaths—mostly in Karamoja. Yet, rapid response campaigns cut new outbreaks by 80%. Similarly, confirmed cases dropped by 73% by December. By year-end, 43 districts had declared their outbreaks over. Meanwhile, nine districts—including parts of Karamoja and Kampala—still reported cases.
Mpox cases peaked early in 2025 but fell steadily after vaccination began in 45 districts. Uganda received over 350,000 Mpox vaccine doses. Importantly, use was high, and no serious safety issues arose.
The hepatitis B birth-dose vaccine also launched in 2025. It now reaches 75% of newborns. As a result, it helps prevent mother-to-child transmission and chronic liver disease.
Uganda made big progress in reducing “zero-dose” children—those who never received any vaccine. Their number dropped from over 104,000 in early 2024 to just 36,452 by late 2025. This improvement came thanks to community outreach and stronger health systems.
Still, challenges remain. For example, vaccine misinformation spreads online and in communities. Additionally, international funding has declined. Some remote areas still struggle with access. Thus, the ministry urges journalists to share accurate, science-based information.
Dr. Michael Baganizi, Program Manager of Uganda’s National Expanded Programme on Immunization (UNEPI), stressed timely vaccination. He reminded parents that all 14 vaccines matter. After all, missing even one dose leaves a child at risk.
Overall, the 2025 results show what focused leadership and community trust can achieve. Clearly, the routine immunisation programme remains vital to Uganda’s future. It protects children, prevents outbreaks, and builds a healthier nation.
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