On November 18, 2024, Uganda joined the rest of the world to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Expanded Program on Immunisation (EPI) at Katoogo Health Centre III in Mukono District, Uganda. The event marked five decades of progress in immunisation, showcasing the collective efforts of individuals, organisations, Community Health Workers (CHWs), national governments, and global partners in achieving better health outcomes for all children.
NAWEC Recognized for Excellence in Immunization and Community Health Initiatives
Nama Wellness Community Centre (NAWEC) was recognized during the celebrations for its outstanding contribution to immunization efforts in Mukono district. As a grassroots organization dedicated to better health outcomes, NAWEC focuses on key areas such as child health, maternal health, and community health. We have made significant strides in reducing preventable deaths by ensuring every child in our catchment area receives a full course of vaccines, regardless of geographical or socio-economic barriers to access. Our comprehensive and strategic approach covers the entire child health continuum—from preconception to postnatal care, addressing critical issues like nutrition, malnutrition, and health education.
At the core of NAWEC’s immunization strategy are our professional Community Health Workers (proCHWs), who utilize the electronic Community Health Information System (eCHIS) to track children’s immunization status through routine household visits. Their key objectives include identifying children due for immunization, locating zero-dose children, and referring them to healthcare services or EPI outreaches. These essential health interventions are crucial to reducing child mortality and improving maternal health in our community.
Beyond direct community engagement, NAWEC strengthens local healthcare infrastructure by collaborating with and supporting 11 government health facilities. This partnership enables integrated outreaches in hard-to-reach areas, ensuring even the most marginalized communities have access to essential preventive and curative healthcare services.
Through these targeted health initiatives, over 15,000 children have been successfully immunized this year alone. This statistic not only represents individual health protection but also contributes to broader community immunization coverage, ultimately enhancing public health resilience in Mukono district and Uganda as a whole.
Celebrating Community Health Workers (CHWs): Unsung Heroes of Immunization and Child Health
1. CHW Awarded for Exceptional Contribution to Immunization and Community Health
Mr. Godfrey Kiddawalime, a Community Health Worker (CHW) supported by NAWEC, was recognized for his unwavering commitment to improving immunization rates within his community. His efforts in reaching even the most remote households have been instrumental in reducing the number of zero-dose children and addressing immunization gaps. Through these essential health interventions, Mr. Kiddawalime plays a critical role in enhancing child health, reducing preventable deaths, and contributing to broader community health initiatives focused on immunization and public health resilience.
2. Demonstrating eCHIS: Innovative Solutions for Enhanced Immunization and Community Health
Another CHW, Mr. Kateregga Rodrick, gave a compelling demonstration of the electronic Community Health Information System (eCHIS) to the guests led by Dr. Nishtar, accompanied by Dr. Diana Atwine, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, the Director General of Health Services, dignitaries from ministries, departments, and government agencies, and representatives from WHO, UNICEF, and the UN. Rodrick showcased how eCHIS has transformed their work by enabling efficient household registration, identification of zero-dose children, and real-time tracking of immunisation schedules.
3. A Voice from the Frontlines: CHWs Leading the Charge in Immunization and Child Health
In addition to these recognitions, Namanda Mariam delivered an inspiring speech that shed light on the vital role CHWs play in their communities. Sharing her personal experiences, challenges, and rewards of serving her community. “Being a CHW is more than just a role; it’s a calling to serve,” she said. “We are the bridge between the healthcare system and the people, ensuring every child receives their vaccines, every mother is supported, and no household is left behind. The smiles of healthier families are the greatest reward.”
Commitment to Future Gains
As Uganda reflects on 50 years of immunisation achievements, the event served as a call to action for continued investment in CHWs, technology, and partnerships to sustain these gains. The awards presented to NAWEC and its CHWs symbolise the power of collaboration and innovation in creating healthier communities.
The EPI@50 celebration was not only a tribute to past successes but also a hopeful step toward a future where every child has access to life-saving vaccines, thanks to the tireless efforts of CHWs and other healthcare workers.
