South Sudan Intensifies Campaign for Child Health with New Vaccine Funding Initiative
The Ministry of Health (MOH) convened a pivotal stakeholder meeting today to mobilize sustainable financing for essential vaccines, notably the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) and rotavirus vaccines, crucial for safeguarding the health of children across the nation. This collaborative effort brought together the MOH, the Impact Health Organization (IHO), and other global partners including the World Health Organization (WHO), Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, UNICEF, and the World Bank.
Dr. Artem, Undersecretary of the National Ministry of Health, emphasized the importance of vaccination in preventive health measures. “When we invest in immunization today, we prevent outbreaks, reduce healthcare costs, and secure a healthier future for all,” he stated. “This meeting underscores our commitment to protecting the children of South Sudan, and we are grateful for the invaluable support from IHO and the Vaccine Network Nigeria, along with our other crucial partners.”
The discussions centered on the urgent necessity for sustainable vaccine funding to protect South Sudan’s youth, particularly as the country seeks to roll out the PCV and rotavirus vaccines effectively. The meeting attracted a wide array of stakeholders, including representatives from various government ministries (Health, Finance and Planning, Humanitarian Affairs), state government officials, international organizations, civil society groups, parliamentarians, health practitioners, media, and religious and community leaders.
With rising concerns about child health in South Sudan, this initiative marks a significant step towards ensuring that children receive the vital immunizations necessary to combat preventable diseases. The MOH’s collaboration with IHO and other global partners is aimed at creating a robust framework for vaccine financing and implementation, ultimately striving for a healthier future for the nation’s children.
