The Kano State Community of Practice (CoP) on Immunization has made progress in addressing zero-dose children and reaching missed communities under the Zero Dose Learning Hub project through advocacy efforts.
Dr. Musa Muhammad Bello, the state focal person for the project, shared this during a quarterly review meeting on immunization budget tracking, accountability, and sustainability, held on September 28 in Kano.
He outlined the results of the advocacy strategies by CoP members, which have built relationships with the Kano State House of Assembly, ministries, and MDAs.”Our advocacy efforts have secured slots for CoP members during public hearings in the budget process, allowing us to push for necessary funding and policy support for immunization,” Dr. Bello stated.
He also noted that the relationship with the Ministry of Budget has improved CoP members’ understanding of the budgeting process, while collaboration with the Ministry of Health and MDAs has helped in maintaining transparency and accountability in the immunization budget. “This cooperation has increased awareness of zero-dose children among key stakeholders,” he added.
Dr. Aminu Magashi Garba, Coordinator of the Africa Health Budget Network (AHBN), stressed the importance of continued advocacy. “Sustained efforts in advocating for immunization funding and accountability will enhance coverage, especially in hard-to-reach communities,” Dr. Garba said.
The CoP is an initiative of AHBN, under the Zero Dose Learning Hub project, implemented in collaboration with the African Field Epidemiology Network (AFENET) and funded by GAVI.
