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Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, has reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to equitable vaccine access during the official launch of World Immunization Week 2025, held in Freetown under the global theme “Humanly Possible: Immunization for All.”
Speaking on behalf of President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, the Vice President highlighted the significant strides made in the country’s immunization efforts, noting a remarkable drop in zero-dose children, from 40,000 to 10,000, within just one year.
“Behind every immunization statistic lies a child’s life and a family’s future,” he said. “No matter where a child is born or the condition of their community, we are committed to reaching them.”
Vice President Jalloh underscored that what was once a distant goal has become a daily reality, thanks to introducing new vaccines, expanding immunization programmes, and investing in strengthening Sierra Leone’s health systems.
Furthermore, Minister of Health and Sanitation, Dr. Austin Demby, reiterated the government’s determination to leave no community behind. He revealed that vaccine coverage for Penta 3 T and Yellow Fever has now surpassed 90%, but acknowledged persistent disparities in underserved areas.
Dr. Demby introduced a new life-stage immunization strategy to provide “the right vaccine at the right time” across all age groups from infancy through adulthood. He called for greater community engagement, increased domestic funding, and private sector collaboration, particularly in supporting local vaccine production.
“Immunization is not just the responsibility of government; it is the responsibility of every one of us,” Dr. Demby stressed.
As World Immunization Week continues, Sierra Leone stands in solidarity with global partners to ensure that every child, everywhere, receives the life-saving protection of vaccines, turning what is humanly possible into a national reality, Vice President Jalloh stated.
