In a renewed push to eliminate the burden of zero-dose children in Kano State, the Africa Health Budget Network (AHBN) and the African Field Epidemiology Network (AFENET) have taken their advocacy to the doorstep of the Kano State Ministry of Health.
During a high-level visit to the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, the consortium emphasized the urgent need for government action in addressing the alarming number of children who have never received a single dose of routine immunization—particularly the Penta 1 vaccine, a crucial shield against preventable childhood diseases.
Leading the delegation, AHBN Coordinator and Team Lead of the Zero Dose Learning Hub project, Dr. Aminu Magashi Garba, called for the immediate inauguration of an Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Committee to fortify the state’s health systems. He commended Dr. Labaran for advancing coordination, transparency, and accountability within the ministry’s operations.
“To address the burden of zero-dose children, it is critical to integrate non-governmental organizations into the Ministry’s Technical Working Groups,” Dr. Garba stated.
In a similar vein, AFENET Team Lead, Dr. Patrick, applauded the state government for enacting legislation establishing the Kano Centre for Disease Control (KNCDC). He noted that the centre would play a pivotal role in curbing disease outbreaks and reducing the prevalence of zero-dose children. Dr. Patrick further proposed the creation of a Revolving Outbreak Response Fund under the KNCDC to ensure swift action during public health emergencies.
Welcoming the delegation, Commissioner Dr. Labaran expressed appreciation for the consortium’s efforts and affirmed Kano State’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery. He praised the ongoing implementation of the Zero Dose Learning Hub project and pledged full support toward achieving zero-dose eradication in the state.
“We are determined to tackle the zero-dose challenge with 100 per cent commitment,” Dr. Labaran declared.
The Zero Dose Learning Hub project, funded by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, is being rolled out in Bauchi, Borno, Kano, and Sokoto States. It aims to identify and address gaps in immunization coverage, ensuring that every child receives life-saving vaccines.
