Kenya has made a groundbreaking decision to switch from a two-dose to a single-dose Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine schedule starting in October 2025, marking a significant step toward eliminating cervical cancer. The move, which follows a recommendation from the National Immunization Technical Advisory Group (KENITAG), comes as part of Kenya’s commitment to reducing cervical cancer-related deaths and improving public health outcomes for women.
Cervical cancer remains the fourth most common cancer globally, with over 350,000 women dying from the disease annually, 94% of whom live in low- and middle-income countries. Despite the preventability of the disease, HPV vaccination and screening programs are still scaling up in these regions. In Kenya, cervical cancer is the second most common form of cancer among women, with 10 women dying daily from the disease. This number is projected to rise if comprehensive actions are not taken, with an estimated 22 deaths per day by 2040.
The single-dose HPV vaccine, which offers the same robust protection as the previous two-dose regimen, will increase accessibility and cost-effectiveness, helping to reduce the burden of cervical cancer. This move places Kenya at the forefront of evidence-based healthcare innovation, aiming to protect millions of girls from HPV-related cancers.
The World Health Organization’s Global Strategy to Eliminate Cervical Cancer sets ambitious targets, including vaccinating 90% of girls by the age of 15, screening 70% of women at 35 and 45 years old, and ensuring 90% of women with cervical disease receive treatment. While global HPV vaccination rates have risen modestly, only 23% of adolescent girls in low- and middle-income countries are currently vaccinated.
The Kenyan government is committed to strengthening its vaccination strategies by integrating adolescent-friendly services, expanding school-based vaccination platforms, and increasing community outreach. Public awareness campaigns and partnerships with civil society organizations, faith-based groups, and local leaders will also play a vital role in building vaccine confidence and combating misinformation.
Kenya’s bold steps toward eliminating cervical cancer through innovative vaccine strategies offer hope for a healthier future, particularly for young girls, and signal a global call to action to prioritize HPV vaccination as a central pillar of cervical cancer elimination.
