His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone has called on African leaders and citizens to unite in achieving universal immunisation across the continent. He delivered this message as the keynote speaker at a High-Level Side Event titled “Reaffirming Africa’s Commitment to Immunisation: A Call for Action to Strengthen Health Systems.” The event took place alongside the 38th African Union Summit in Addis Ababa.
President Bio highlighted the importance of leadership and immediate action to protect the health and well-being of African populations. The event reviewed Africa's progress on immunisation, building on the Addis Declaration on Immunisation (ADI), which has enhanced vaccine coverage and delivery systems since 2017.
“There is no greater measure of a nation’s progress than the health and well-being of its people. Vaccines are the silent architects of a nation’s strength; they fortify our communities and save lives,” President Bio stated. He stressed that universal access to immunisation not only protects public health but also supports economic stability during health crises.
Reflecting on Sierra Leone's experiences with epidemics like Ebola and COVID-19, President Bio emphasized that strong immunisation systems are crucial for national security. “One of the most important lessons we have learnt is that a strong immunisation system is not optional, it is fundamental to national security,” he said.
President Bio shared Sierra Leone's achievements under his leadership, noting record levels in national immunisation coverage by the end of 2024. Measles vaccinations reached 95% coverage, DPT3 vaccinations hit 97%, and malaria vaccines were administered to 71% of eligible children. “We refuse to accept a status quo where preventable diseases continue to claim lives,” he asserted.
He urged African leaders to ensure every child has access to life-saving vaccines, regardless of their birthplace. “This is not charity; it is common sense,” he emphasized.
In closing remarks, President Bio appealed for ownership of Africa’s immunisation agenda by Africans themselves. “Africa’s immunisation agenda must be owned and led by Africans today, with an urgency that cannot be overstated," he said. "We cannot depend indefinitely on external funding, nor can we afford to be reactive.”
Dr. Austin Demby, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Health and Sanitation, concluded with a statement reaffirming Africa's commitment to advancing the immunisation agenda while acknowledging Sierra Leone's role in leading this effort.
Alerts Sign-up