The government of Maniema province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has initiated preparations for a polio vaccination campaign. A meeting was held on October 30, 2026, at the Kindu Governor's office to mobilize resources and advocate for the campaign. Provincial Education Minister Merha Marungu Usseni Kadjol, who is acting on behalf of the Health Minister, presided over the meeting. Key stakeholders, including the UNICEF, World Health Organization (WHO), and VillageReach, attended the discussions.
The meeting aimed to engage various actors in the vaccination campaign, including local authorities, health professionals, and partners. The goal is to vaccinate children in all 18 health zones of Maniema province. Participants made commitments to contribute to the campaign's success according to their capabilities. The involvement of each stakeholder is crucial to reaching the target population. The campaign's success will depend on the collaboration of health professionals, local authorities, partners, and parents.
A notable absence at the meeting was the representatives of health personnel unions, who are currently on strike. Governor Moïse Mussa Kabwankubi has planned to meet with them before November 5, 2026, to initiate dialogue and find a compromise. This move aims to prevent the strike from hindering the vaccination campaign. The provincial government is working to ensure that the strike does not negatively impact the campaign.
The vaccination campaign in Maniema province is part of a broader effort to combat poliomyelitis. The province has 18 health zones, and the campaign seeks to protect children from the disease. Health professionals, local authorities, and partners are working together to make the campaign a success. The provincial government has emphasized the importance of collaboration in achieving the campaign's objectives.
Key stakeholders, including the UNICEF, WHO, and VillageReach, are supporting the vaccination campaign. These organizations are providing technical and financial assistance to ensure the campaign's success. The government has also engaged with local leaders and the society to raise awareness about the importance of vaccination. The campaign's launch is imminent, and stakeholders are working to ensure its success.
The absence of union representatives has raised concerns about the campaign's impact. However, the governor's plan to meet with them aims to address this issue. The government is working to find a solution that will not compromise the campaign's success. Stakeholders are optimistic about the campaign's prospects, given the level of engagement and collaboration.
The polio vaccination campaign in Maniema province is set to commence soon. With the support of stakeholders, including health professionals, local authorities, and partners, the campaign aims to protect children from poliomyelitis. The government's efforts to engage with all stakeholders, including union representatives, demonstrate its commitment to the campaign's success.
Key points
- The vaccination campaign targets 18 health zones in Maniema province.
- The government is working with stakeholders, including UNICEF, WHO, and VillageReach, to support the campaign.
- The campaign's success depends on the collaboration of health professionals, local authorities, partners, and parents.