Somalia has launched a sweeping vaccination campaign targeting over 3 million children under the age of five across the country.
The week-long effort, which began on Monday, aims to protect children from measles, polio, and pneumonia—three of the deadliest yet preventable childhood illnesses.
Led by the World Health Organization (WHO) in partnership with federal and regional Somali governments, the campaign is also backed by the Vaccine Alliance (GAVI).
The WHO described the initiative as a “critical move to shield vulnerable communities” amid the country’s fragile health infrastructure.
Despite the African continent being declared polio-free in 2020, Somalia remains at risk due to persistent health system weaknesses and security challenges.
Ongoing conflict, displacement, and climate-related crises have hampered access to essential health services, leaving millions of children exposed.
In April, Somalia expanded its national immunisation programme to include the pneumococcal conjugate and rotavirus vaccines, targeting pneumonia and diarrhoea.
These diseases, along with measles, remain among the leading causes of child mortality in the Horn of Africa nation.
The WHO has classified parts of Somalia as among the world’s seven “consequential geographies” for polio risk, citing overcrowding and continued insecurity.
Despite no detected cases of poliovirus since 2014, experts warn that any lapse in vaccination could lead to resurgence.
Health officials hope this campaign will mark a turning point in preventing further outbreaks and boosting child survival rates.
As syringes pierce the arms of millions, Somalia edges closer to safeguarding its youngest generation from the grip of preventable diseases.
