Sabin: Supporting “The Backbone of Public Health” in Somalia
Boost Member Khaliif Abdullahi Nouh, an immunization specialist with Somalia’s Federal Ministry of Health, highlights the critical role of immunization as the "backbone of public health," particularly in Somalia, where over 1.5 million children remain zero-dose amid challenges like conflict, displacement, and climate-induced crises. As a fellow of the WHO’s COVID-19 Recovery Fellowship, Nouh implemented a successful catch-up campaign in Garowe City, reaching 1,743 zero-dose children and administering thousands of additional vaccine doses for polio, measles, and tetanus, alongside Vitamin A supplementation. Key strategies included using female vaccinators for cultural accessibility, social mobilizers for outreach, and integrating services to maximize impact. While challenges remain in reaching remote and conflict-affected populations, Nouh’s efforts demonstrate the potential for integrated approaches to strengthen immunization systems and inspire further innovations. To read more, click the link below!