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Joint immunization supportive supervision mission in Ethiopia's Somali Region

Tesfaye Kassahun - Technical Officer, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

2026-09-02

Joint supportive supervision involving the Ministry of Health and EPI partners is essential for understanding realities on the ground, identifying implementation bottlenecks, and taking timely corrective actions.

I was honored to participate in a joint immunization supportive supervision mission in Ethiopia's Somali Region. The visit provided an excellent opportunity to observe firsthand the progress being made in identifying and vaccinating zero-dose and under-vaccinated children, as well as reaching hard-to-reach communities through context-specific strategies by the public and private health facilities.

One particularly inspiring practice was observed at one of the health centers that maintained a special "Graduation Register" for children who completed the full recommended immunization schedule. Upon receiving their second dose of measles-containing vaccine (MCV2) at 15 months of age, each child's photograph and details was added to the deducted register as a symbol of successful completion. This simple yet innovative approach served as a powerful motivation for mothers to adhere to their children's vaccination schedule and fostered a sense of achievement within the community.

Such locally driven innovations demonstrate how creativity, commitment, and community engagement can contribute to improving immunization coverage and ensuring that no child is left behind.