Immunization

The World Health Organization estimates that immunization prevents up to 5 million deaths each year. However, 1 in 5 children still lacks access to essential vaccinations, putting them at risk of death, disability, and illness from preventable diseases.

In 2022, the number of zero-dose children in Africa increased to 7.7 million, up from 7.6 million in 2021 and 6.2 million in 2019. Unfortunately, immunization services in the African region have not yet fully rebounded from the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Community Health Workers play a crucial role in bridging this gap. They collect real-time data on the immunization status of every child in their community, refer cases where coverage gaps exist, and work closely with relevant health facilities to address these deficiencies.

Our Response & Impact

Living Goods collaborates with partners to enhance vaccination coverage in the areas where we operate. In partnership with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and the Ministries of Health in Uganda and Kenya, Living Goods integrated immunization services into the community health worker (CHW) service package in 2019.

We support community health workers in closing the childhood immunization gap and increasing demand, particularly in hard-to-reach communities. These workers educate families about childhood vaccines, utilize digital tools to track under-immunized children, and conduct referrals and follow-up visits to ensure all vaccinations are administered on schedule.

A survey conducted in Uganda and Kenya revealed that the number of zero-dose children aged 6 weeks to 59 months—those who had never received any vaccines—decreased by 56% in Uganda and 70% in Kenya. This indicates that vaccinations have served as a vital entry point into the health system for children who were previously left behind.

The survey in Uganda and Kenya found a 56% decrease in zero-dose children in Uganda and a 70% decrease in Kenya, reflecting the success of vaccination efforts.

Results of training and digitally empowering CHWs in immunization since 2018

*Click any points in the maps to learn more.

Kenya

Uganda

CHWs Improve Information Access

The endline survey highlighted the significant role that community health workers (CHWs) play in disseminating vaccination information within their communities. More than 80% of caregivers reported receiving information on immunization, with CHWs being the primary source. They accounted for 56% of information touchpoints in Kenya and 41% in Uganda.

Additionally, the survey revealed that CHWs focused on immunization follow-up and education during their household visits. This approach not only increased equitable access to immunization coverage but also enhanced the knowledge and skills of CHWs and positively influenced the attitudes and practices of both CHWs and caregivers.

Driving Vaccine Uptake in Kisumu, Kenya – a CHW’s Experience

Contact Us

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Sign up to hear inspiring stories from the field, lessons learned, breaking news and our latest big ideas.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.