A promise to every child
In the heart of every community lies a promise: to protect our children and give them the best possible start in life. One of the most powerful tools we have to honour that promise is immunisation.
In Mozambique, where children are the heartbeat of families and communities, vaccines play a vital role in preventing life-threatening diseases such as measles, polio, tuberculosis, and pneumonia. Yet, despite widespread efforts, thousands of children still miss out on routine vaccinations due to access challenges, misinformation, and vaccine hesitancy.
This is mostly due to:
• access challenges,
• misinformation, and,
• vaccine hesitancy.
A lifesaving shield
Vaccines work by helping the body develop immunity without causing the illness itself. In a country where healthcare infrastructure is stretched in many rural areas, immunisation becomes an even more powerful shield — It prevents outbreaks and saves millions in healthcare costs.
Mozambique’s Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI), launched decades ago, has made remarkable progress. From mobile outreach units to campaigns in schools and community clinics, health workers have been the unsung heroes, ensuring vaccines reach the most remote corners of the country.
Did you know:
The vaccines are provided free of charge at public health facilities across Mozambique! Vaccines are distributed to all provinces and districts to ensure nationwide coverage
Still, gaps remain. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted immunisation schedules, while myths and misinformation continue to fuel fear. Addressing these challenges requires more than just needles, it requires trust, education, and commitment from every sector of society.
Why should Mediplus members utilise these services?
1. It is free: It helps members make the most of their day-today benefits
2. It saves lives: Vaccinations saves lives by preventing the spread of diseases
3. Monitoring and reporting: The Ministry of Health continuously monitors vaccination coverage and addresses gaps through targeted interventions.
The road ahead: every child counts
The World Health Organisation highlights that immunisation prevents 3 to 5 million deaths each year. In Mozambique, achieving full vaccine coverage could mean the difference between thriving communities and preventable loss.
What can be done?
• Strengthen education campaigns in local languages and dialects.
• Empower mothers and caregivers with knowledge through health workers and community leaders.
• Support healthcare infrastructure so that no child is left behind — regardless of where they live.
Childhood immunisation is not just a health priority; it is a moral imperative. As Mozambique continues to build a stronger, healthier nation, let us ensure that every child — from Maputo to Niassa — grows up protected.