By Mohamed Abdi - Reporter
Djibouti, December 9, 2025 – Djibouti has launched a national vaccination campaign aimed at protecting girls aged 9 to 14 against cervical cancer, health officials said.
The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign, targeting a virus responsible for cervical cancer, will run from December 7 to 12, 2025. The vaccine is being provided free of charge.
The launch ceremony was attended by Health Minister of Ahmed Rooble Abdille, along with the Ministers of Education and Women’s Affairs, the UNICEF Representative, and other senior officials.
Minister Rooble said girls aged 9–14 are considered the most vulnerable to the virus, which is why the vaccination program focuses on this age group.
United Nations Children's Fund’s (UNICEF) Representative in Djibouti, Beate Dastel, reaffirmed the agency’s support for the initiative, saying: “UNICEF is directly strengthening its support and partnership with the Ministry of Health.”
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The vaccination program is part of broader efforts to raise public awareness and improve women’s health across the country. Officials say they hope the campaign will significantly reduce cervical cancer among girls and lead to measurable improvements in national health outcomes.
According to the latest World Health Organization (WHO) data, Djibouti recorded 71 new cases of cervical cancer and 54 deaths in 2023, with an incidence rate of 16.5 cases per 100,000 women per year.
The campaign is being carried out in partnership with the Ministry of Health, WHO, Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (Gavi), and UNICEF. It is intended to ensure young girls receive full protection through the recommended vaccination schedule.
