MOGADISHU - To address the pressing issue of low immunisation rates in Somalia, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Somalia is collaborating with esteemed global organisations such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), the Somalia National Bureau of Statistics (SNBS), and others.

Somalia grapples with substantial challenges in achieving adequate immunisation coverage, with only 11% of children aged 12 to 23 months receiving all basic vaccinations. Factors such as difficult access due to security concerns, lack of health infrastructure, and the absence of accurate population data have contributed to this concerning statistic.

Through innovative methodologies and cutting-edge technologies, this partnership seeks to significantly improve immunisation campaigns in the country. Key initiatives of this partnership include the development of automated tools to generate preliminary enumeration areas (pre-EAs) using state-of-the-art technology provided by WorldPop. These pre-EAs will enable more accurate planning and allocation of resources for immunisation campaigns, particularly in hard-to-reach areas.

Moreover, the collaboration with the United Kingdom Office for National Statistics (ONS) Data Science Campus, funded by FCDO, has led to the development of an automated approach to map temporary IDP shelters in Somalia. This breakthrough will facilitate the identification and inclusion of displaced populations in immunisation efforts, ensuring comprehensive coverage.

Additionally, the establishment of the World Health Organisation(WHO) Somalia GIS Center further strengthens the partnership's capacity to respond to public health emergencies, including ongoing polio outbreaks. Through the utilisation of geospatial data and technical expertise, this initiative aims to enhance Somalia's health system resilience and response capabilities.

This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of UNFPA Somalia and its partners to address critical health challenges and improve the well-being of communities in Somalia. With confirmed funding from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, FCDO, and UNFPA, negotiations are underway to expand the scope of this initiative and reach more areas in need.