Civil Society Leaders Gather to Strengthen Community Engagement in Immunization

A civil society health advocacy network, Health For All Coalition Sierra Leone (HFAC-SL), in collaboration with the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) and the Ministry of Health, and with support from the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI), organized a significant engagement on Wednesday, October 2, 2024. The event took place at the Civil Service Training College on State Avenue in Freetown and brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), councilors, traditional and religious leaders, as well as various women’s and youth groups.

The theme of the event was “Immunization is the Cheapest Means of Saving Lives of Children, Young Girls, and Women from Preventable Diseases.” This theme underscores the critical importance of immunization as a cost-effective strategy for safeguarding health, particularly for vulnerable populations. The initiative specifically targeted regions that include the Western Area Urban, Koinadugu, and Falaba districts in the Northeast, as well as Kono and Kailahun districts in the Eastern Region.

During the event, HFAC Executive Director Charles Mambu articulated the primary objective of the exercise: to ensure that the remaining 10% of children and girls who have yet to receive their vaccinations are immunized. Mambu emphasized the coalition’s commitment to inclusivity, stating, “HFAC-SL is dedicated to making certain that nobody is left behind in the immunization and vaccination process.” This highlights a proactive approach to addressing gaps in immunization coverage.

Mambu further elaborated on the role of health workers, asserting that it is their responsibility to conduct routine vaccinations daily within their respective communities. He called for heightened efforts to engage families and community members to raise awareness about the importance of vaccinations in preventing serious health issues. The interactive nature of the session allowed participants to share their insights and experiences, fostering collaboration among various stakeholders.

The event attracted representatives from key health organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and the Freetown City Council. These collaborations are crucial as they provide additional resources and expertise to support the immunization efforts in Sierra Leone. HFAC is tasked with the vital responsibility of advocating to close the immunization gap, ensuring that comprehensive strategies are implemented to reach underserved populations.

By mapping out community actors and enhancing collaboration, the coalition aims to improve access to immunization services, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes for children, young girls, and women in Sierra Leone. The expected impact of this initiative is significant, as it not only seeks to increase vaccination rates but also to build a healthier future for the next generation.

In conclusion, this engagement marks a crucial step in Sierra Leone’s ongoing efforts to promote health equity and ensure that all individuals, regardless of their background or location, have access to essential immunization services.