The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has kicked off one of the largest vaccination drives in Africa aiming to protect more than 62 million children and adolescents from two highly contagious but preventable diseases: measles and rubella.
On 27 November 2025, health authorities officially launched the nationwide campaign in Lubumbashi, targeting children aged 6 months to 14 years. This massive initiative comes ahead of the country’s plan to introduce the combined Measles–Rubella (MR) vaccine into its routine immunization schedule. The single measles vaccine currently in use will gradually be replaced with the MR vaccine, helping the country close immunity gaps and increase long-term protection.
A Phased Rollout Across the Country
The campaign will roll out in phases, grouped by blocks of provinces.
The first block, covering seven provinces , Haut-Katanga, Haut-Lomami, Lualaba, Tanganyika, Bas-Uele, Haut-Uele, and Ituri which will run its vaccination activities from 27 November to 1 December 2025.
This transition to the MR vaccine is being supported by major global health partners including:
- Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance
- Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- UNICEF
- United States CDC
Their collective goal: ensure every child is protected, regardless of location or circumstance.
Why This Campaign Matters Now
The DRC continues to battle recurrent measles outbreaks, making this campaign both urgent and lifesaving. Today, more than 7 million children under five remain at risk.
Introducing the MR vaccine has two major health benefits:
- Stronger measles protection in a country that has faced repeated outbreaks
- Reduced risk of Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS) a condition that can cause severe birth defects
With improved coverage, the DRC could be on track to significantly reduce and eventually eliminate both measles and rubella.
Strong Calls for Community Action
Dr. Roger Kamba, Minister of Public Health, Hygiene and Social Security, emphasized the importance of community involvement:
“This campaign marks a decisive step toward eliminating measles and rubella in our country. Vaccines are safe, effective, and save lives. I call on every parent and community leader to ensure that no child is left behind.”
To reach every eligible child, health workers will operate through fixed vaccination posts, mobile teams, and outreach services, covering even conflict-affected and hard-to-reach communities. Civil society groups and community leaders are also being engaged to tackle misinformation and build trust.
WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Mohamed Janabi, noted:
“The introduction of the measles-rubella vaccine is an important step for child health and a major milestone in preventing needless deaths from vaccine-preventable diseases.”
Moving Toward a Healthier and Safer Future
Routine immunization in the DRC has faced multiple challenges over the years, leaving millions of children unprotected. By introducing the MR vaccine, the country is taking a significant leap forward in reducing vulnerability and strengthening its public health system.
This campaign represents more than just a vaccination effort it’s an ambitious plan to save lives, prevent outbreaks, and build healthier communities for generations to come.