By Mohamed J. Kargbo
The Health for All Coalition Sierra Leone (HFAC-SL), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, GAVI (the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization), and other partners, has called on citizens to increase their participation in HPV routine vaccination programs and other primary healthcare immunizations.
The appeal was made during a press conference held on November 27, 2024, at the District Health Management Team (DHMT) compound, located in the Old Fourah Bay College building in Cline Town, Freetown.
Speaking at the event, Charles Mambu, Executive Director of HFAC-SL, commended Sierra Leone for its high immunization coverage for women, girls, and children, a success recognized by health development partners across sub-Saharan Africa.
He described this as a significant milestone but acknowledged several challenges that still hinder vaccination efforts.
Mambu highlighted issues such as misconceptions about immunization as a vital public health measure, gender-related barriers that discourage vaccine uptake, insufficient community awareness and engagement regarding immunization, opposition from certain religious groups, who view vaccines as unsafe or unnecessary due to spiritual beliefs.
To address those challenges, HFAC-SL, in collaboration with GAVI and other stakeholders, is intensifying community engagement and sensitization campaigns.
Mambu emphasized the government’s commitment to procuring and distributing life-saving vaccines, reassuring the public of their safety and efficacy. He urged eligible women, girls, and children to take the HPV vaccine, which protects against cervical cancer, along with other essential vaccinations.
Dr. Foday Sesay, District Medical Officer, underscored the significance of educating the public about cervical cancer and its impact on women’s health.
He encouraged girls aged 9-14 to take the HPV vaccine, noting that a single dose is sufficient to provide immunity against cervical cancer.
While commending existing efforts, Dr. Sesay stressed the need for more campaigns, community sensitization, and awareness programs. He urged women and girls to visit health facilities where the vaccine will be available, emphasizing the importance of timely action to prevent the disease.
District Health Sister Umie R. Amara echoed the sentiments of the previous speakers, urging women to prioritize regular cervical cancer screenings and to ensure their children receive routine vaccinations.
She called on attendees to spread the message in their communities and urged the media to amplify this critical call to action.
The press conference concluded with a strong appeal to the public to embrace vaccination as a life-saving measure, helping to protect Sierra Leonean women and children from preventable diseases like cervical cancer.
