This archive report was first published on 14 November 2019.
The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine has the potential to prevent six million deaths from cervical cancer, according to the Global Alliance for Vaccines.
As of 2018, cervical cancer was the second leading cause of death in Kenya, with 5,250 new cases and 3,286 deaths reported that year.
Kenya's Ministry of Health launched a campaign in October 2019 to vaccinate 10-year-old girls against HPV, which is the major cause of cervical cancer, targeting at least 800,000 girls at a cost of Sh800 million.
Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Global Alliance for Vaccines, Anuradha Gupta, commended Kenya's efforts, stating that the country was on the right path in combating cervical cancer.
However, Gupta noted that there were signs of apathy towards the HPV vaccine, particularly from religious leaders, and emphasized the need for education on its economic benefits.
Rwanda, which introduced the HPV vaccine in 2012, has reported a 90% coverage rate, with State Minister for Health, Patrick Ndimubanzi, attributing the success to engagement and education.
