Rwanda Introduces New HPV Vaccine, Gardasil 9, to Prevent Cervical Cancer

The Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC) said the vaccine is currently being rolled out in Gicumbi, Karongi, Kayonza, and Nyarugenge districts. Gardasil 9 protects against nine types of HPV, including the four most common strains — 6, 11, 16, and 18 — plus five additional types.

Rwanda is the first country in Africa to introduce Gardasil 9 into its immunization program.

Hassan Sibomana, RBC’s Director of Immunization Services, told The New Times that the vaccine differs from the previously used Gardasil 4, which protected against only four HPV types. “Gardasil 9 protects against multiple HPV strains that can cause different cancers and offers broader protection than the previous vaccine,” he said.

The vaccine is administered in two doses for people aged 9 to 45, with schoolgirls receiving a single dose. The initial rollout targets selected districts to assess effectiveness and safety before nationwide distribution. RBC plans to inform communities as additional doses become available.

Sibomana emphasized Gardasil 9’s potential to significantly reduce cervical cancer. “Our goal is to reach 90% vaccination coverage, screen 70% of women, and provide treatment to 90% of those diagnosed. Last year, nearly 95% of 12-year-old girls in targeted districts were vaccinated successfully,” he said.