The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has congratulated Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Health (MoH) and the Government for their continued excellence in national immunization coverage, following the July 2025 release of the latest WHO-UNICEF Estimates of National Immunization Coverage.
According to a press statement, the Regional Director for UNICEF in Central and West Africa lauded Sierra Leone for maintaining exceptional vaccination performance. He noted:
“Sierra Leone has maintained outstanding vaccination coverage, with the third dose of the combined diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTP3) and measles vaccines remaining above 90% from 2018-2024 well above the regional average. The coverage of HPV vaccines has also shown remarkable progress, reflecting the strength of your health system and the commitment of your government and partners.”
He commended the country for resilience in service delivery, strong political leadership, and effective community-based strategies. The Director also applauded Sierra Leone for introducing new vaccines, including the malaria and HPV vaccines, as well as the second dose of IPV into the routine immunization programme.
The statement further acknowledged the Government’s fulfillment of its 2025 co-financing obligations for vaccine procurement an achievement reached despite a notable decline in official development assistance. This, UNICEF emphasized, reflects strong national ownership and exemplary partner coordination.
The Regional Director encouraged the Government to continue pursuing sustainable vaccine financing, timely co-financing, strengthened epidemic preparedness, and expanded access to underserved communities. These steps, he said, are essential for achieving universal immunization coverage in line with the Addis Ababa Declaration of 2017 and the Immunization Agenda 2030.
UNICEF reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Sierra Leone so that every person especially every child benefits from life-saving vaccines. The congratulatory message reinforces the Government’s dedication to investing in the health sector and reducing infant mortality.