The government has taken delivery of the first consignment of Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines aimed at preventing cervical cancer.

The initial batch of 441,860 doses marks the start of a nationwide rollout designed to reduce the incidence of one of the most common and preventable cancers affecting women.

In a statement issued in Accra on Tuesday, 18 June, UNICEF Ghana—the lead agency responsible for procuring and shipping the vaccines—announced that over the coming weeks, it will deliver more than 2.5 million doses of the HPV vaccine to Ghana.

According to the statement, the delivery will support a five-day national immunisation campaign scheduled for September 2025. The campaign, to be led by the Ghana Health Service, aims to protect girls and women from cervical cancer—a preventable yet widespread disease.

Following the campaign, the vaccine will be offered free of charge as part of the routine immunisation programme for girls turning nine years old, reinforcing Ghana’s commitment to public health.

Cervical cancer is the most common cancer caused by a viral infection of the female reproductive tract. Despite being among the most easily preventable cancers in women, efforts to control it are hindered by limited knowledge about the disease, poor access to preventive services such as vaccination, and the affordability of such services.

The statement described the inclusion of the HPV vaccine in the national Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) as “a significant step in the right direction.”

It noted that the HPV vaccine is safe and effective in preventing cervical cancer and is already included in the national routine immunisation schedules of over 140 countries. Making the vaccine accessible to all girls ensures they are protected long before they are at risk, reducing the long-term health burden.

“Preventing cervical cancer allows girls to grow into healthy women, mothers, and leaders who can contribute meaningfully to society,” the statement added.

“This initiative marks a significant advancement in promoting public health in Ghana, ensuring that future generations of women are safeguarded against cervical cancer.”

About UNICEF

UNICEF is the world’s leading child rights organisation, working in over 190 countries and territories to reach every child, everywhere. It believes in the power of every child and is committed to protecting and promoting their rights, including the right to health and survival.