A Community Awakens Against Malaria

In the Kongo Central province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, a remarkable movement is taking shape—led not by politicians, but by passionate youth determined to protect their communities from malaria, one of the nation’s deadliest diseases.

Meet the Young Leaders

At the helm of this effort is 28-year-old medical student Michael Makiese Nlandu, who has rallied nearly 150 young volunteers in Kisantu since September 2023. These dedicated individuals, consisting mainly of students and unemployed youth, are focused on a vital mission: to cultivate trust in vaccines and other essential health interventions for children under five, especially as a new malaria vaccine is set to roll out in October 2024.

The Malaria Vaccine: A Game-Changer?

This groundbreaking vaccine promises to lessen malaria-related illnesses in young children, the demographic most susceptible to severe outcomes. Kongo Central leads the DRC in this rollout, with support from organizations like PATH.

Facing the Challenges Head-On

However, the launch faced significant hurdles. A recent perception survey revealed discouraging statistics: only a small percentage of caregivers were willing to vaccinate their children due to widespread misconceptions. Alarmingly, 60% believed the vaccine could negatively impact their child’s intelligence. Others voiced religious concerns or fear of side effects.

A Bold New Strategy

In response, PATH teamed up with UNICEF to initiate a youth-led communication challenge designed to boost vaccine demand where it was needed most. This innovative approach emphasized building trust, dispelling rumors, and guiding families to follow the recommended vaccination schedule.

The Power of Community Engagement

Youth clubs across seven health zones were established, each consisting of 30 to 40 volunteers aged 15 to 24. Through training on malaria, immunization messaging, and community outreach, these passionate individuals became vital conduits between health authorities and families, reinforcing the importance of vaccination.

Building Trust, One Door at a Time

Michael and his crew eschewed conventional outreach methods. Instead of merely speaking to parents in public spaces, they knocked on doors, engaged families in conversation, and shared their own stories. Michael emphasized, “Salvation is individual. A familiar face can change perceptions.” In one instance, a skeptical father softened when he recognized a neighbor among the volunteers, leading to his granddaughter receiving the vaccine.

Marking Progress Together

While mothers were generally more receptive, the youth teams didn't stop there. They accompanied parents to vaccination appointments, reinforcing commitments for follow-up doses—finding innovative ways to integrate communication into routine health visits.

Success Amid Challenges

Despite occasional frustrations—like missing batteries for megaphones—the youth-led strategy yielded impressive results. Data highlighted an uptick in vaccine coverage starting in January 2025, along with a notable drop in dropout rates between vaccine doses. Through their initiatives, youth clubs identified unvaccinated children and ensured they were reached.

Transforming Health in the Community

Local health officials recognized the pivotal role played by these youth volunteers. Marie Ndambi Nzita from the Provincial Health Division noted the plan to involve these groups in future immunization strategies, citing their impact as profound.

An Ongoing Commitment

Even after the official initiative wrapped in February, Michael and his peers remained vigilant in their efforts. During a community cleanup in June, they educated parents about the connection between standing water and mosquitoes, ultimately getting five children who missed their doses vaccinated.

A Call for Broader Engagement

PATH, UNICEF, and the Ministry of Health are now working to extend this successful youth engagement model to other provinces. They aim to replicate the Kongo Central strategy for broader success against malaria.

A Personal Mission

For Michael, this endeavor is more than an endeavor—it's personal. "We do it because we care. We are a family. And our responsibility is to take care of each other," he asserts, epitomizing the spirit of this youth-led campaign.