By Mohamed Peggie Jaward in Pujehun
Focus1000, a leading non- governmental organization working on promoting antenatal care, exclusive breast-feeding, immunization, proper use of mosquito nets, reduction of teenage pregnancy and voluntary blood donation has over the weekend ended its bi-annual review meeting with Pujehun District stakeholders. The bi-annual review meeting which was held at the District Health Management Team Hall in Pujehun Town targeted officials from the District Health Management Team, members of the Kombra Network, In-charges, Vaccinators and Data Clerks from the 5 supported zero-dose facilities, Facility Management Committee and Community Health Workers.
Speaking to Radio Wanjei, the District Coordinator of Focus 1000 in Pujehun District, Abass Nabieu Jah underscored the importance of the review meeting which aims to providing structural opportunities in accessing progress made from February to August this year in terms of immunization; the gains they have made and the recommendations in implementation.
He said, Focus1000 wants to achieve an increase in the uptake of immunization in the zero-dose communities; the reason for the review meeting. He highlighted the five zero-dose communities they are working – ranging from Sengema in the Malen Chiefdom, Njaluahun in the Barrie Chiefdom, Korwama in the Perri Chiefdom, Pehala in the Kabondeh Chiefdom and Nyadehun Bessima in the Mano Sakrim Chiefdom respectively.
Jah affirmed that, vaccines build the immune system of children and prevent them from getting sicknesses like Diphtheria, Tetanus, Tuberculosis, Haemophiles Influenza, Hepatitis B., Meningococcal Meningitis, Pneumonia, Diarrhea and Yellow Fever.
Musa Jalloh, the Project Manager, Sierra Leone Integrated Routine Immunization, Safeguarding Lives through Vaccination Project at Focus1000 emphasized the importance of community-driven solutions in achieving higher immunization coverage.
He said from February to August, there have been drastic changes in the immunization efforts ranging from the high increase in immunization uptake, improved coordination between health actors and successful routine immunization campaigns.
Jalloh said as vaccination remains one of the most effective tools in preventing childhood diseases, it is also essential to engage communities, build trust and dismantle myths and misconceptions about vaccines.
On his part, the District Operation Officer I attached at the District Health Management Team, Ministry of Health in Pujehun, Mohamed Jalloh noted the significance of the collaboration. “Focus1000 continues to be a strong partner in our efforts to deliver lifesaving vaccines to every child. These review meetings are essential for identifying bottlenecks and finding local solutions,” he said.
The review meeting saw the development of an action plan tailored to the unique challenges of Pujehun District which includes intensified community sensitization efforts, targeted outreach in border communities, improved cold chain infrastructure and strengthened partnerships with traditional and religious leaders to boost vaccine acceptance. Agnes Minah, a member of Kombra Network praised Focus1000 for involving them and for hearing their voices. She said when their voices are part of the process, it builds trust and encourages more parents to take their children for immunization The bi-annual review meeting is part of Focus1000’s ongoing support for Sierra Leone’s Extended Programme on Immunization and aligns with the country’s national health priorities and global health targets.
