Summary This collection of stories highlights how dedicated health workers and community leaders in Congo are using tailored approaches to ensure no child is left behind, regardless of the geographical and social barriers they may face. Quick Links Introduction Community Mobilization in Kalehe Overcoming Hesitancy in Kafakumba Innovative Strategies in Remote Areas: How Congo is Overcoming Obstacles in Polio Vaccination In the vast and diverse landscapes of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, reaching every child for polio vaccination presents unique challenges, especially in remote or hard
Resilience and Advocacy: Personal Stories of Triumph in Congo’s Fight Against Polio Summary This collection of stories explores the lives of two individuals who have transformed their personal adversities into powerful advocacy for polio vaccination, demonstrating resilience and the profound impact of personal testimony. Quick Links Introduction Julienne Zirage Ngoyi Mwilambwe Resilience and Advocacy: Personal Stories of Triumph in Congo’s Fight Against Polio In the fight against polio in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, some individuals stand out not just for their roles in public health
Champions of Change: Four Inspiring Stories from Congo's Polio Vaccination Frontlines Summary This article celebrates the achievements of four community leaders in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, who are making a significant impact in the fight against polio through grassroots activism and leadership. Quick Links Introduction Obedi Sylla Alain Mponyongo Joseph Jandar Victor Kambila Champions of Change: Four Inspiring Stories from Congo's Polio Vaccination Frontlines In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the fight against polio is championed not just by health professionals but by
Summary This article details the journey of Félix Yvon Béfio from a staunch opponent of vaccination to a community hero advocating for child health in Bossangoa’s Nguébé neighborhood. Quick Links Introduction Change of Heart Community Impact Community Hero: How Félix Yvon Béfio Became a Vanguard for Child Health in Bossangoa Félix Yvon Béfio, a father of five in Bossangoa’s Nguébé neighborhood, was once a staunch opponent of vaccinating his children, not due to a lack of awareness about the benefits but because of negative experiences with healthcare providers. “I was frustrated because when a
Summary This article highlights the efforts of local leaders in Guinea, particularly through the ‘Godparents for Vaccination’ initiative, supported by UNICEF Guinea, to increase polio vaccination rates in underserved communities. Championing Change: Local Leaders Spearhead Vital Polio Vaccination Campaign in Guinea Moussa is a 25-year-old man from a polygamous family with three siblings. Originally from Siguiri, he is single without children and holds a degree in International Relations from IMAT University, fluent in both English and French. The ‘Godparents for Vaccination’ initiative
Summary This article outlines Benin's innovative approach to polio eradication, highlighting community engagement and digital innovation during the response campaign from February 2 to 5, 2024. Quick Links Background Campaign Preparation Campaign Implementation Campaign Results Benin's Pioneering Approach to Polio Eradication: Community Engagement and Digital Innovation Drive Success Information Note on the Implementation of the Polio Response Campaign from February 2 to 5, 2024 As part of the global initiative to eradicate polio, Benin organized a response campaign against the 27 cases of
Summary This article highlights the efforts of frontline heroes in Sudan’s Red Sea State to vaccinate every child against polio, despite challenges posed by conflict and displacement. Quick Links Campaign Launch Reaching Children in Remote Areas Success Stories GPEI Background in Sudan Frontline Heroes: Reaching Every Child in Sudan’s Red Sea State Going the extra mile to stop poliovirus spread It’s day one of the polio vaccination campaign in Sudan’s Red Sea State, where poliovirus was detected in sewage samples earlier in 2024. At the crack of dawn, vaccinators set off with their vaccine
Summary This article by Fungma Fudong and Shorai Nyambalo-Ng’ambi highlights the dedication of UNICEF staff in Malawi who traded office work for fieldwork to support the polio campaign. Quick Links In The Field for a Cause Personal Stories Collaboration and Success In The Field for a Cause: In Malawi, Colleagues Trade Office Work for Fieldwork to Support the Polio Campaign By: Fungma Fudong - Chief Advocacy and Communications & Shorai Nyambalo-Ng’ambi – SBC Specialist In March 2022, Malawi responded to its first wild poliovirus outbreak in 30 years, by launching a nationwide vaccination
Summary This article by Shorai Nyambalo-Ng’ambi, a SBC Specialist at UNICEF Malawi, shares her personal and professional journey in the fight against polio in Malawi. Author: Shorai Nyambalo-Ng’ambi – SBC Specialist, UNICEF Malawi For me, the fight against polio in Malawi isn't just professional—it's profoundly personal. As a mother of three young children, I don't just advocate for vaccinations; I ensure my own children are protected against polio with every necessary dose. Yet, my role extends far beyond my household. At UNICEF Malawi, I contribute technical expertise to the government's
Summary This article tells the story of Fatuma Mohamed Ahmed, a dedicated community health mobilizer in Nairobi, and her efforts to combat polio through community engagement and education. Quick Links Fatuma's Story Community Challenges Government and UNICEF Efforts Conclusion On the Frontlines: Mobilizing Nairobi's Communities Against Polio At the heart of Eastleigh, Nairobi, is Fatuma Mohamed Ahmed, a 28-year-old compassionate UNICEF supported community health mobilizer to making a positive impact in her community during polio campaigns. Draped in a modest Hijab, Fatuma not only upholds
