The compositions and methods are described for generating an immune response to a Plasmodium antigen. The compositions and methods described herein relate to a modified vaccinia Ankara (MVA) vector encoding one or more viral antigens for generating a protective immune response to malaria by expressing the Plasmodium antigen in the subject to which the MVA vector is administered. The compositions and methods of the present invention are useful both prophylactically and therapeutically and may be used to prevent and/or treat malaria.