Bold Science. African-Led. Impact-Driven
Overview
The GAVI-SIRI project is a multi-country operational research initiative evaluating a new strategy to optimize the timing of malaria vaccine delivery in areas with highly seasonal malaria transmission. In Benin, the project is led by the Centre de Recherche Entomologique de Cotonou (CREC) in collaboration with the African Institute for Research in Infectious Diseases (AIRID) and the national immunisation and malaria control programmes. AIRID plays a central role in coordinating implementation of field research activities.
Project Description
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The GAVI-SIRI project is a multi-country operational research initiative evaluating a new strategy to optimize the timing of malaria vaccine delivery in areas with highly seasonal malaria transmission. In Benin, the project is led by the Centre de Recherche Entomologique de Cotonou (CREC) in collaboration with the African Institute for Research in Infectious Diseases (AIRID) and the national immunisation and malaria control programmes. AIRID plays a central role in coordinating implementation of field research activities.
The project aims to determine the feasibility, impact, and cost-effectiveness of intensifying malaria vaccine delivery ahead of the rainy season to enhance protection in young children.
Principal Investigator
Dr Corine Ngufor
Context
In regions like central Benin, where malaria cases spike during the rainy season, there may be substantial benefit to aligning vaccine delivery with this high-risk period. The project compares a “seasonal intensification” strategy in the Dassa-Glazoué health zone to standard age-based vaccination in Tchaourou. Vaccination efforts are intensified in May and June, and the timing of the fourth vaccine dose is adjusted to ensure maximum protection during peak transmission months.
Key Objectives
- Improve malaria vaccine uptake and scheduling among children under 2
- Enhance protection during peak malaria season
- Assess feasibility, community acceptance, and operational challenges
- Determine the cost-effectiveness of seasonal delivery compared to routine age-based vaccination
Evaluation Components
- Qualitative research with caregivers, health workers, and community leaders
- Health facility data collection to assess malaria incidence
- Coverage surveys to measure uptake and timing of vaccine doses
- Cost analysis and modelling to assess financial sustainability and health impact
Project Partners
- Ministry of Health (Benin)
- Centre de Recherche Entomologique de Cotonou (CREC)
- African Institute for Research in Infectious Diseases (AIRID)
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM)
- European Vaccine Initiative (EVI)
- WHO/TDR
- Université de Thiès (Senegal)
- Université Gamal Abdel Nasser (Guinea)
Funders
- Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance
- Global Health EDCTP3
Budget
USD 2,070,791
Timeline
The study began in May 2025, with preliminary results expected in early 2026. Outcomes will inform malaria vaccine policy and delivery strategies across sub-Saharan Africa.
