7 February 2025 by Limpho Sello

Est. Read Time: 2m 6s

Listen to this article:

Dr. Innocent Nuwagira, the World Health Organisation (WHO) representative in Lesotho, has warned that if Lesotho becomes too relaxed about childhood vaccinations and the HPV vaccine, it could undo the progress the country has made in protecting people with these life-saving vaccines.

“Despite our progress, significant challenges remain. Emerging infectious diseases, inequities in vaccine access, and vulnerabilities within health systems continue to test our resolve. However, these challenges also present opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and shared solutions—values that this forum embodies,” Dr Nuwagira said.

He said this on January 25, 2025, during a review of GAVI-supported programs in Lesotho. He urged Lesotho and its partners to focus on important goals, like making sure every child in the country gets life-saving vaccines, no matter where they live.

Dr. Nuwagira added that the COVID-19 pandemic exposed big gaps in healthcare, and fixing these issues should remain a top priority for Lesotho’s vaccination efforts.

“Immunisation is not only about vaccines but also about the systems that deliver them. Building resilient, efficient, and equitable health systems is critical to ensuring the success of vaccination programs and other essential health services.

“As new vaccines and delivery methods emerge, we must embrace innovation. WHO is committed to supporting the development of next-generation vaccines and leveraging digital health technologies to enhance vaccine coverage and monitoring.

“Advocacy for sustainable, long-term funding is essential. Immunisation programs must not depend on short-term funding cycles. Securing reliable resources is critical to achieving immunisation coverage goals and ensuring a healthier future,” Dr. Nuwagira said.

Meanwhile, Health Minister Selibe Mochoboroane reaffirmed the importance of immunisation as a key public health intervention.

“Vaccines are not just a preventive measure; they are a promise of a healthier, more prosperous future for all. Together, let’s make a difference,” Mochoboroane said. 

He pledged accountability measures for district medical officers (DMOs) and urging international partners to sustain their support.

“As a Ministry, we are going to sign performance contracts with you, and each of you is going to account for zero-dose children in your district.” 

Mochoboroane said the review of GAVI-supported programs in Lesotho was a chance for the country and its partners to evaluate how well their vaccination efforts are working.

He added that the meeting also allowed participants to identify areas for improvement and renew their commitment to achieving their goals.

“We will review the successes of the past year but also confront the challenges and risks that continue to threaten our collective efforts.” 

Mochoboroane emphasised that support from organisations like WHO, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), GAVI, and United States Agency for International Development (USAID) provides Lesotho with the resources and expertise needed to overcome existing obstacles.

“To our donor partners, we are deeply grateful for your continued support. Your investments have made a tangible difference in our immunisation space, and together we have made remarkable strides. Yet, the work is far from over.”