The Chadian Ministry of Public Health and Prevention, in partnership with technical and financial partners, officially closed African Vaccination Week on September 19, 2026, at N'Djamena's Diguel Stadium. The event, themed "Vaccines Work for Every Generation," drew significant attendance from public and private institutions, youth associations, and other invitees. A sports march and match between the ministry's team and partners marked the occasion.
Throughout the week, various activities took place across N'Djamena's ten districts, including fixed, advanced, and mobile vaccination strategies. Healthcare workers conducted active searches and catch-up vaccinations for "zero-dose" and under-vaccinated children. Community dialogues, educational talks, and mobilization efforts involving local leaders, youth, and women's associations were also organized. Authorities commended field workers, vaccinators, community relays, and social mobilizers for their dedication.
Dr. Chantal Kambiré, representing partners, urged stakeholders to build on the exceptional mobilization and focus on four priorities: reaching and tracking zero-dose children, especially in urban areas; improving data quality and cold chain management; maintaining epidemiological surveillance to eradicate poliomyelitis; and gradually increasing domestic financing for vaccination. Partners, including WHO, UNICEF, and Gavi, reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the Chadian government's efforts.
Dr. Narassem Mbaidoum, Deputy Director-General of Public Health, reiterated the government's commitment to collaborating with partners to combat vaccine-preventable diseases in her closing remarks. She encouraged the Chadian population to prioritize vaccinations and urged local authorities, associations, and parents to enhance awareness-raising efforts.
The African Vaccination Week campaign aimed to promote immunization and protect communities from vaccine-preventable diseases. By engaging various stakeholders, the initiative sought to strengthen vaccination systems and improve healthcare outcomes. Partners emphasized the importance of sustained efforts to ensure the long-term success of immunization programs.
Dr. Mahamat Brahim Dahab previously highlighted the significance of vaccination, stating that immunizing children offers lifelong protection and safeguards the community. His sentiments echoed the campaign's goals and underscored the role of individual and collective responsibility in promoting public health.
Moving forward, stakeholders will focus on implementing the priorities outlined during the closing ceremony. With continued collaboration and commitment, Chad aims to enhance its vaccination strategies, improve healthcare outcomes, and ultimately contribute to a healthier population. Key efforts will concentrate on increasing immunization coverage, particularly among vulnerable populations.
Key points
- The Chadian government and partners are committed to strengthening vaccination systems and improving healthcare outcomes.
- African Vaccination Week activities reached across N'Djamena's ten districts, engaging various stakeholders in immunization efforts.
- Partners emphasized the importance of sustained efforts and collaboration to ensure the long-term success of immunization programs.
