Japan and WHO Team Up to Boost Indonesia's Child Immunisation
In an ambitious move to bolster child immunisation rates across Indonesia, Japan and the World Health Organisation (WHO) have joined forces in a year-long initiative aptly titled 'No Child Left Behind'. This collaborative effort is set to tackle the worrying decline in vaccination coverage that has plagued the country in recent years due to the pandemic.
Indonesia, once boasting an impressive 93.7% vaccination rate in 2019, witnessed a significant drop to 84.2% during the tumultuous years of 2020 and 2021. The joint initiative aims to reverse this trend by reinforcing routine immunisation, enhancing disease detection, and building local capacity, with a keen focus on priority areas such as North Sumatra. The programme underscores the critical importance of immunisation as a cornerstone of public health, crucial for safeguarding children against vaccine-preventable diseases.
As part of the broader Indonesia National Immunization Strategy (2025–2029), this initiative aligns with the country's strategic policy roadmap, crafted with support from both UNICEF and the WHO. The strategy not only facilitates planning and implementation but also emphasises monitoring and evaluation to ensure effective outcomes.
The collaboration with Japan brings additional resources and expertise, crucial for addressing the gaps that have left many children vulnerable. It is a timely intervention as the world marks the 2025 World Immunization Week, themed 'Immunization for All is Humanly Possible'. The national theme, 'Let's Complete Immunization, Healthy Generation for Golden Indonesia', reflects the country's commitment to nurturing a healthier future for its youth.
This initiative represents more than just a health campaign; it is a beacon of hope for countless families. By ensuring that no child is left behind, Indonesia is paving the way for a generation poised to thrive in a healthier, more secure future.
