Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi emphasized that the HPV vaccine is safe and most effective when provided from age nine or before girls become sexually active. The vaccine was approved by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority in 2008, and millions of South African girls have received it without serious side effects.

The department explained that the success of the campaign hinges on stronger collaboration among all stakeholders, particularly parents and caregivers, who are required to complete vaccination consent forms issued by schools to eligible girl learners.

"The most vital part of the campaign is this vaccination campaign. We plead to parents to give consent for their children to be vaccinated. In so doing, they will be saving the lives of their own children," Motsoaledi said.