KEWOPA RAISES ALARM OVER DELAYED GAVI CO-FINANCING, WARNS OF IMMINENT VACCINE CRISIS.
BY NJOKI KARANJA.
The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) has issued a stern warning to the Ministry of Health and the National Treasury over the country’s failure to meet its GAVI co-financing obligations for the 2024/2025 financial year, a delay that threatens to plunge Kenya into a nationwide vaccine crisis.
In a strongly worded statement, KEWOPA expressed concern that, with just three months remaining before the June 30 deadline, Kenya has yet to make any payments towards the $12.5 million required under its GAVI agreement. The association warned that continued inaction could result in vaccine stockouts, jeopardizing the health and lives of millions of children across the country.
“Failure to meet this deadline will undermine Kenya’s Expanded Programme on Immunization and endanger the progress we have made,” KEWOPA stated, urging the immediate release of funds to prevent disruptions in the country’s vaccine supply chain.
KEWOPA praised Kenya’s recent strides in child health, noting an 85% immunization coverage and reduced numbers of zero-dose children. However, they emphasized that these gains are at risk if the government does not act swiftly to fulfill its financial obligations.
The association also urged the Ministry of Health to present a comprehensive status report to the National Assembly, detailing current vaccine stock levels at national, county, and facility levels, as well as projections for future needs and procurements. Additionally, KEWOPA called on the National Treasury to provide a full breakdown of the status of Kenya’s GAVI payments, including timelines for future disbursements.
As donor support for immunization continues to dwindle, KEWOPA called for increased domestic budget allocations to sustain immunization programs. They further urged full government funding for the 2025/2026 immunization budget cycle.
Looking ahead to GAVI’s transition plan for Kenya by 2029, KEWOPA demanded transparency and government commitment to ensure no gaps emerge in vaccine coverage as the country moves toward self-financing.
“We will not rest until the health and future of our children are safeguarded,” said the KEWOPA Chairperson. “Vaccine equity and access must be a national priority, not a privilege.”
The association reaffirmed its commitment to championing children’s health and holding government institutions accountable in ensuring sustained immunization coverage for all.
