The Vaccine Network for Disease Control (VNDC) is making remarkable strides in its Partnership to Reach Zero-Dose Children (PREACH) project. This initiative focuses on enhancing immunization coverage in Nigeria by mobilizing domestic resources, ensuring efficient allocation, and guaranteeing timely vaccine financing, including Gavi co-financing obligations.
Key Achievements
- Increased Budget Allocation: VNDC successfully advocated for a 100% increase in Nigeria’s 2024 immunization budget, boosting it from N69 billion to N137 billion.
- Timely Fund Releases: The project facilitated the release of 36% (N25.2 billion) of Nigeria’s 2023 immunization and Gavi co-financing budget and expedited the early release of 25% (N29.1 billion) of the 2024 funds.
- State-Level Advocacy Successes:
- In Kwara State, VNDC secured legislative commitments to enhance domestic resource mobilization for immunization and primary health care (PHC).
- In Gombe State, VNDC supported the passage of an amended Primary Health Care Development Agency Bill, mandating increased operational financial allocation to immunization and PHC.
Advocacy and Stakeholder Engagement
VNDC engaged a wide array of stakeholders, including the Ministry of Budget and Planning, the Federal Ministry of Health, the Office of the Accountant General, and state-level authorities. Key actions include:
- Technical meetings to develop accountability frameworks and fact sheets on immunization financing.
- Legislative-led multi-stakeholder workshops to foster transparency, efficient allocation, and utilization of immunization funds.
- Strategic engagements with the Nigeria Governors’ Forum to promote increased funding for PHC and immunization through innovative approaches such as reinvesting petroleum subsidy savings.
Media and Public Awareness
VNDC leveraged media coalitions, press conferences, and workshops to amplify its advocacy efforts. A notable achievement was the collaboration with over 20 media organizations to address delays in fund releases, highlighting the urgency of timely vaccine financing.
Challenges and Future Plans
Despite economic constraints and bureaucratic hurdles, VNDC remains committed to its mission. We plan to continue advocating for sustainable funding strategies, conducting capacity-building sessions, and ensuring accountability in immunization financing.
Join Us
Be part of the movement to eliminate zero-dose children in Nigeria. Learn more about VNDC’s efforts and how you can contribute to a healthier future for every child.
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