Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and UNICEF have announced a new agreement to make the R21/Matrix-M™ malaria vaccine significantly more accessible and affordable. The deal could save up to US$90 million, enabling UNICEF and Gavi to procure 30 million additional doses and fully vaccinate nearly 7 million more children against malaria over the next five years.
Financing and Execution
As per The UNICEF press release, the agreement is executed by UNICEF and financially backed by Gavi through the International Finance Facility for Immunisation (IFFIm). This innovative mechanism enables Gavi to use advance payments to secure timely access to vaccines. It also accelerates immunization programs and improves market stability.
Lower Vaccine Price and Market Impact
The malaria vaccine will be offered at US$2.99 per dose, with the price expected to take effect within approximately one year. This deal reflects Gavi and UNICEF’s commitment to shaping a sustainable, competitive malaria vaccine market. It also supports the Alliance’s goal to fully vaccinate 50 million additional children by 2030. The agreement builds on commitments made during Gavi’s June 2025 pledging summit in Brussels to lower costs and expand access.
Statements from Leaders
“Today’s announcement highlights how our Vaccine Alliance leverages partnerships and innovative financing to secure affordable vaccines—saving lives and generating economic benefits,” said An Vermeersch, Gavi’s Chief Vaccine Programmes & Markets Officer. “The demand for this new malaria vaccine is unprecedented, and we thank our partners for helping countries access this life-saving tool.”
Gavi’s Role in Vaccine Access
Gavi facilitates procurement, logistics, market shaping, and integration of malaria vaccines into national immunization programs. To date, the Alliance has delivered over 40 million doses. These vaccines are now part of routine immunization in 24 African countries. Together, they cover more than 70% of the global malaria burden.
UNICEF’s Role and Commitment
UNICEF is the world’s largest vaccine buyer. It delivers nearly three billion doses annually, enough to vaccinate almost half of the world’s children. UNICEF engages directly with manufacturers to secure the best possible prices. Together with Gavi and partners, it ensures a sustainable global supply of life-saving vaccines.
“A child dies from malaria every minute, claiming nearly half a million young lives each year,” said Leila Pakkala, Director of UNICEF Supply Division. “Amid declining international aid, UNICEF remains committed to delivering vaccines at the best possible price to protect children from preventable diseases.”
IFFIm Enables Swift Action
This milestone was made possible through IFFIm, Gavi’s financial innovation engine. IFFIm converts long-term donor pledges into immediate cash. This allows the Alliance to act quickly on opportunities, such as securing equitable malaria vaccine pricing. Since its inception, IFFIm has mobilized billions to accelerate immunization globally.
“IFFIm turns ambition into action. This agreement demonstrates how financial innovation can save lives and ensure every child has a fair chance at protection,” said Ken Lay, Chair of IFFIm’s Board of Directors.
Malaria’s Continuing Global Burden
In 2023, malaria caused an estimated 263 million cases worldwide. It also led to 597,000 deaths, an increase of 11 million cases from the previous year. Approximately 95% of deaths occurred in Africa, predominantly among children under five. In high-burden countries, malaria accounts for the largest share of hospital consultations, imposing significant costs on families and health systems. The World Health Organization estimates that treating uncomplicated malaria in sub-Saharan Africa costs US$4–7 per outpatient visit. Severe cases that require hospitalization can exceed US$70.