Accra, Ghana – 18 June 2025 – In a major step towards preventing cervical cancer and protecting the health of girls and women, the Government of Ghana has received its first shipment of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. The initial delivery of 441,860 doses marks the beginning of a nationwide rollout aimed at reducing one of the most common and preventable cancers affecting women.
Over the coming weeks, UNICEF – the lead agency responsible for procuring and shipping these vaccines – will deliver more than 2.5 million doses of the HPV vaccine to Ghana. The delivery will support a five-day national immunization campaign planned for September 2025, led by the Ghana Health Service, aimed at protecting girls and women from cervical cancer—a preventable yet widespread disease. After the campaign, the vaccine will be offered free of charge as routine vaccine for girls turning aged 9 years in the country through Ghana’s national routine immunization programme, reinforcing the country’s commitment to safeguarding the public health of the people of Ghana.
Cervical cancer is the most common cancer caused by a viral infection of the female reproductive tract. Despite being one of the most easily preventable forms of female cancers, efforts towards cervical cancer control are hindered by a lack of knowledge about the disease, risk factors, poor access to preventive services including vaccination, and the affordability of these services. The inclusion of the HPV vaccine in the national Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) is a significant step in the right direction.
The HPV vaccine is proven to be safe, and effective to prevent cervical cancer. Over 140 countries have already included the vaccine in their national routine schedules. Making this vaccine available to all girls means they are protected long before there is a risk, reducing the burden they could carry into adulthood.
Preventing cervical cancer allows girls to grow into healthy women, mothers, and leaders, contributing meaningfully to society. This initiative marks a significant advancement in promoting the health for the people in Ghana, ensuring that future generations of women are safeguarded against cervical cancer.
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About UNICEF
UNICEF is the world’s leading child rights organization, working in over 190 countries and territories to reach every child, everywhere. We believe in the power of every child, and we are committed to protecting and promoting their rights, including the right to health and survival.
