Angola takes a historic step with the introduction of the cervical cancer vaccine

Empowering Angola’s Future: A New Chapter in Cervical Cancer Prevention

A Personal Story Inspiring Change

At just 12 years old, Lélia Bartolomeu witnessed the harsh reality of cervical cancer through her grandmother’s battle with the disease. Her grandmother’s poignant words, “If only the vaccine had existed when I was young, I wouldn’t be suffering now,” left a lasting impression on Lélia and fueled her determination to make a difference.

The Cervical Cancer Burden in Africa and Angola

Every year, cervical cancer claims the lives of over 76,000 women across Africa, with more than 117,000 new diagnoses annually. Despite being one of the most preventable and treatable cancers when detected early, the lack of widespread access to screening, vaccination, and treatment results in a staggering 90% mortality rate. Angola mirrors this troubling trend; in 2022 alone, the Angolan Cancer Control Institute reported 915 cervical cancer cases, accounting for nearly 17% of all cancer diagnoses nationwide.

Historic Launch of Angola’s HPV Vaccination Campaign

In a groundbreaking move to combat this public health challenge, Angola has procured over two million doses of the WHO-prequalified HPV vaccine. Spearheaded by the Ministries of Health and Education, the country initiated a nationwide vaccination campaign aimed at protecting girls and young women from cervical cancer. The launch event, held in Luanda, brought together government leaders, international partners, private sector representatives, families, and students. The campaign’s ambassador, Angola’s First Lady Dr. Ana Dias Lourenço, led the ceremony, underscoring the government’s commitment to this life-saving initiative.

Lélia: A Symbol of Hope and Progress

During the launch, Lélia became the first girl to be officially registered for vaccination, symbolizing the hopes of countless young girls across Angola. “I am proud to represent the girls of my country and continent. This vaccine gives us protection and the chance to envision a brighter future,” she expressed with enthusiasm.

Phased Implementation for Maximum Impact

The vaccination rollout will occur in two stages: an initial campaign from October 27 to November 7, 2025, targeting schools, health centers, and fixed vaccination sites nationwide; followed by integration of the HPV vaccine into Angola’s routine immunization schedule starting January 2026. This strategic approach aims to ensure broad and sustained coverage.

Community Engagement: The Key to Success

“Our goal is to provide everyone with clear, accurate information so they can engage in meaningful dialogue, ask questions, and understand the importance of vaccination. Only through informed decisions can we achieve success,” emphasized Dr. Ana Dias Lourenço. This community-centered approach is vital to overcoming misinformation and vaccine hesitancy.

Aligning with Global Goals to Eliminate Cervical Cancer

Angola’s vaccination campaign aligns with the World Health Organization’s Global Strategy to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health threat by 2030. The ambitious targets include vaccinating 90% of girls by age 15, screening 70% of women aged 35 and 45 with high-precision tests, and ensuring 90% of women diagnosed with cervical lesions or cancer receive appropriate treatment. Achieving these goals will drastically reduce cervical cancer incidence and mortality.

Collaborative Efforts Driving Progress

The Angolan government has forged strong partnerships with international organizations such as the European Investment Bank, WHO, UNICEF, UNDP, GAVI, the European Union, and the World Bank. These alliances provide critical support in funding, technical expertise, and community outreach, reinforcing Angola’s capacity to implement this vital health program.

A Vaccine of Hope and Equity

The introduction of the HPV vaccine in Angola represents not only a medical milestone but also a profound step toward social justice. By ensuring equitable access to vaccination, Angola is paving the way for future generations of girls to grow up healthy, empowered, and free from the fear of cervical cancer.

A Call to Action

“It is imperative that we unite to vaccinate every girl and leave no one behind. The moment to act is now, and it is a shared responsibility,” urged Dr. Indrajit Hazarika, WHO Representative in Angola. This rallying cry highlights the urgency and collective effort needed to eradicate cervical cancer in Angola and beyond.