Jigjiga, Ethiopia – The Health Bureau of the Somali Regional State (SRS) has officially launched a 10-day child vaccination campaign aimed at delivering essential maternal and child health services to communities across districts and towns in the region.

According to local state media, the campaign is a collaborative effort between the regional health bureau, partner offices, and several non-governmental organizations. The initiative aims to vaccinate over 1.5 million children against deadly and preventable diseases, safeguarding the health and future of the region’s youngest generation.

Speaking at the campaign’s launch event, Muuse Ahmed, the Regional Health Bureau Minister, emphasized the critical role of vaccines in protecting children’s lives and building a healthy society. He noted that the program includes a range of immunizations, covering illnesses such as measles, malnutrition-related diseases, and other common child and maternal health threats.

“This campaign provides a comprehensive set of vaccines, ensuring that every child receives the immunizations they are entitled to,” said Minister Muuse. “It’s our duty to protect our children so that we can build a healthy, productive generation for the future.”

In addition to delivering life-saving vaccines, the campaign also aims to raise public awareness on the importance of immunization and the availability of health services during the rollout. Community engagement will be a key component, with health professionals and volunteers mobilized to inform families and ensure wide coverage throughout the region.