The WHO African Region HPV Data Pack 2026, providing a consolidated overview of cervical cancer burden and HPV vaccination coverage across the 47 Member States of the Region.

Context & Burden Cervical cancer is the 2nd most common cancer in women across the WHO African Region, with incidence rates nearly twice the global average and unacceptably high mortality due to limited access to screening and treatment. Over 95% of cases are caused by persistent HPV infection, making vaccination the cornerstone of primary prevention.

Progress So Far

• 36 of 47 Member States have introduced HPV vaccination over the past 14 years
• Momentum accelerated after WHO’s 2018 call for action
• 11 more countries plan to introduce by 2029
• Significant coverage and equity gaps still persist

Three Priority Actions

• Strengthen data & monitoring - build country capacity, improve data completeness and timeliness, and integrate HPV indicators into existing immunization performance frameworks
• Improve programme planning & delivery - through microplanning, validation of administrative coverage data, and evaluation of adolescent vaccination strategies
• Expand screening & treatment access - ensure a continuum of care from prevention to early detection and management

Elimination Goal (90-70-90 Targets)

• 90% of girls vaccinated by age 15
• 70% of women screened with a high-performance test by ages 35 & 45
• 90% of women with pre-cancer or cancer receiving appropriate treatment

With WHO’s endorsement of the single-dose HPV vaccination schedule and sustained momentum toward the 90-70-90 elimination targets, the opportunity to eliminate cervical cancer in the WHO African Region is within reach. Sustained commitment and coordinated action across all stakeholders will be essential.

We extend our sincere appreciation to all Member States, partners, and donors for their continued collaboration and commitment to this shared vision.