HPV vaccination programs show impact in South Africa and expansion in Ghana

Public health initiatives targeting Human Papillomavirus (HPV) are showing significant progress in Africa. In South Africa, a decade-long vaccination program introduced in 2014 for grade 4 girls has led to a substantial decline in high-risk HPV infections. Research indicates that infections with HPV types 16 and 18, which are responsible for approximately 70% of cervical cancer cases globally, fell by 83% between pre-vaccine and post-vaccine groups. This reduction is particularly notable in a population where high HIV prevalence increases the risk of HPV progressing to cervical disease.

In Ghana, the Ghana Health Service (GHS) has announced two nationwide rounds of HPV vaccination in schools scheduled for late 2026. Conducted under the Periodic Intensification of Routine Immunisation (PIRI), the campaign aims to protect girls aged nine to 14. The first phase is set for October 19–23, 2026, followed by a second round from November 30 to December 4, 2026. The initiative is a collaborative effort with the Ghana Education Service to increase vaccine awareness and uptake to prevent cervical cancer and related illnesses.