As Kenya grapples with a worrying dip in national childhood immunisation rates, Uasin Gishu County is stepping up to lead by example, bringing together an unprecedented coalition of stakeholders to champion child health.
On Wednesday, the County Government of Uasin Gishu convened a high-level engagement forum to accelerate efforts to increase the uptake of life-saving vaccines.
The forum, designed to boost access to and use of immunisation services, drew a wide range of participants, including representatives from the Ministry of Health, local administration, religious institutions, civil society, private sector actors, and media outlets.
“We brought everyone to the table because immunising a child is not just the job of the health department—it’s a shared responsibility,” said Dr. Evans Kiprotich, the Director for Health Services.
What’s the immunisation rate among Uasin Gishu children?
Currently, Uasin Gishu boasts an impressive 82% coverage for Fully Immunised Children (FIC), surpassing the new national average of 77%, which has declined from 83% in recent years. FIC status includes protection from preventable diseases such as polio, measles, and rubella, delivered through a schedule of oral polio vaccines, pentavalent shots, measles-rubella doses at 9 and 18 months, vitamin A supplementation, and regular deworming.
Dr. Kiprotich emphasised that such gains cannot be taken for granted: “We cannot afford to lose momentum. Each missed vaccination leaves a child at risk.”
Stakeholders agreed that in a world increasingly plagued by misinformation, trust-building and community engagement remain critical.
“This diverse group reflects the broad network involved in a child’s well-being. From a religious leader promoting vaccine acceptance to media shaping public perception, everyone has a role to play,” noted Dr. Kiprotich.
Joshua Masai, the County Expanded Program on Immunisation (EPI) Coordinator, outlined the county’s roadmap for keeping immunisation numbers on an upward trajectory.
“Our focus is grassroots,” said Masai. “We are doubling down on outreach, awareness campaigns, and partnerships with local organisations to make sure no child is left behind.”
The renewed push comes at a time when national concerns are growing over vaccine hesitancy, logistical challenges, and service delivery gaps, especially in hard-to-reach areas. But Uasin Gishu is sending a clear message: protecting children is non-negotiable.
“At the end of the day, it’s not about percentages—it’s about safeguarding our children’s future. Immunisation is not optional; it is life-saving,” Masai said.
As Kenya works to reverse the national decline, Uasin Gishu’s all-hands-on-deck approach may just provide the blueprint the country needs.
