Angola Launches Cholera Vaccination Campaign to Protect 2 Million Citizens

In a significant public health initiative, the Angolan government has launched a new cholera vaccination campaign aimed at protecting over 2 million residents across several provinces, including Cabinda, Kwanza Sul, Huíla, Lunda Norte, Namibe, and Zaire. The campaign commenced on July 13, 2025, in Cafunfo, Lunda Norte, and is supported by international organizations such as GAVI - the Global Alliance for Vaccines, the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and the European Union.

This vaccination effort comes in response to ongoing cholera outbreaks in Angola, which have affected numerous communities, particularly in regions with active transmission of the disease. The campaign involves a comprehensive approach that includes fixed vaccination posts and door-to-door outreach to ensure maximum coverage. Dr. Sílvia Lutucuta, Angola's Minister of Health, emphasized the importance of community involvement, stating, "Everyone has to take part in this war against cholera. We’re almost there; there’s just a little bit left, and if we all work together, we’ll be able to get rid of cholera in Angola."

The current vaccination campaign utilizes Euvichol-S, an oral, single-dose vaccine provided by GAVI and distributed through the International Coordination Group (ICG). This round of vaccinations aims to increase coverage significantly, building on the previous efforts that saw approximately 1 million vaccines administered in earlier rounds. The campaign deploys 942 vaccination teams comprising skilled vaccinators, mobilizers, and supervisors who will not only administer vaccinations but also provide education on hygiene and sanitation.

Dr. Indrajit Hazarika, the WHO Representative in Angola, highlighted the vaccine's role while stressing the necessity for structural improvements in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) to combat cholera effectively. He remarked, "The oral vaccine is a strong tool in our hands, but it must be complemented by sustainable investments in WASH. Only then can we hope to eliminate cholera in the long term."

The cholera vaccination campaign is crucial as it addresses the urgent health needs of communities that have lived in fear of the disease for months. Many individuals, like Verónica Domingos Ferreira from Kwanza Sul, expressed their relief and gratitude upon receiving the vaccine, stating, "I’m very grateful. Today I got vaccinated, and I vaccinated my children. This vaccine is a blessing. Now I feel that my family is better protected."

This initiative not only aims to provide immediate protection against cholera outbreaks but also reflects Angola’s commitment to enhancing its public health infrastructure and ensuring the safety and dignity of its population. The government plans to sustain the campaign in the forthcoming days while actively encouraging community participation, thus reinforcing the collaborative effort essential for overcoming public health challenges.

The implications of this vaccination campaign extend beyond immediate health concerns; it highlights Angola's efforts to bolster its healthcare capacity amid ongoing challenges. By fostering community engagement and strengthening health systems, Angola aims to mitigate the impact of cholera and other infectious diseases, ultimately improving the quality of life for its citizens. The success of this initiative may serve as a model for other nations facing similar public health crises, showcasing the importance of international collaboration and community involvement in health campaigns.