Cost-Effectiveness and Budget Impact of Introducing the Human Papillomavirus Vaccine into Tanzania’s National Immunisation Programme: An Economic Evaluation for 2021–2026

This study provides an economic evaluation to inform the introduction of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine into Tanzania’s national immunisation programme. Cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality among women in Tanzania, and vaccination represents a crucial primary prevention strategy. We performed a cost-effectiveness and budget impact analysis from a governmental perspective over a five-year time horizon (2021–2026). A static cohort model simulated the vaccination of a single cohort of ten-year-old girls using a two-dose schedule. The model compared the strategy of vaccination alongside existing cervical cancer screening against screening alone. All cost inputs, including vaccine procurement, delivery, and programme costs, were sourced from national accounts and tender estimates. Epidemiological parameters, such as age-specific cervical cancer incidence and vaccine efficacy, were derived from Tanzanian data and robust regional literature. The analysis employed a 3% discount rate for both costs and benefits. Results demonstrate that introducing the HPV vaccine is highly cost-effective, with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) substantially below one times Tanzania’s gross domestic product per capita. The estimated total budgetary requirement for the introductory phase is considerable yet manageable, representing a defined proportion of the current national health expenditure. This analysis offers rigorous, context-specific evidence for policymakers, concluding that HPV vaccination is a prudent public health investment for Tanzania. Its successful integration would substantially reduce the future burden of cervical cancer, supporting national and regional health priorities.