Anyone traveling to the so-called "meningitis belt" in Africa (see map) should always consider vaccination against meningitis. It can be fatal, even with good treatment in a first class hospital. In Africa, it usually occurs in epidemics during the dry season.
Right now, several countries in the "belt" are currently reporting outbreaks--the majority of cases come from Nigeria, Niger, Chad, and Burkina Faso. SeeMeningococcal Disease and Travel to Africa for more information on the outbreaks and on how to protect yourself.