Minister Mahoi Engages GAVI and Health Ministry To Boost Healthcare and Immunization Strives.

In a bold stride toward enhancing healthcare delivery and addressing gender barriers in immunization, the Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, held a strategic engagement with representatives from GAVI, The Vaccine Alliance, and officials from the Ministry of Health (MoH) to Boost Inclusive Healthcare and Immunization in Sierra Leone

The high-level dialogue brought together key stakeholders including Dr. Reward O. Nsinm and Maria Padkina from GAVI, as well as Amanda Clemens, Michael Jones, and Dr. Desmond Kangbai from MoH. Senior officials from MoGCA Chief Director Charles Vandi and Deputy Chief Director Marian Goodie Sowonie also participated in the session.

The meeting focused on strengthening multisectoral collaboration to ensure effective vaccine dissemination for children and adolescents while addressing persistent gender-related barriers to healthcare access.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Desmond Kangbai underscored the importance of tackling gender inequalities that hinder access to immunization.

He emphasized integrating innovative approaches to enhance healthcare systems and promote equal access to vaccination for all children.

Maria Padkina highlighted the objective of the meeting which she said was ro reinforce collaboration between GAVI, MoH, and MoGCA in ensuring that every child in Sierra Leone receives life-saving vaccines.

She stressed the need to counter misinformation about immunization through school outreach and community sensitization, integrating gender inclusion as a critical pillar in healthcare initiatives.

Welcoming the delegation, Minister Dr. Isata Mahoi expressed appreciation for GAVI’s continued partnership and commitment to strengthening Sierra Leone’s healthcare system.

She reaffirmed MoGCA’s dedication to advancing women’s and children’s health, emphasizing male involvement, community sernsitization, and adolescent engagement in decision-making as key strategies to foster behavioral change.

“We must continue educating communities on the importance of vaccination and create safe spaces for adolescents to learn, grow, and lead healthy lives,”

Dr. Mahoi noted, adding that combating misinformation and cyberbullying is vital in protecting public health awareness.

Dr. Reward O. Nsinm echoed the need for stronger resource mobilization and local-level implementation of health programs, particularly in districts where children remain vulnerable.

He reaffirmed GAVI’s commitment to collaborate with MoGCA in advancing equitable healthcare for all.

In her closing remarks, Maria Padkina reiterated GAVI’s pledge to deepen partnerships that promote quality healthcare and eliminate gender disparities in vaccine distribution.

The meeting concluded with a group photograph, symbolizing renewed commitment among MoGCA, GAVI, and MoH to strengthen healthcare delivery and immunization coverage across Sierra Leone.

MoGCA Communications Unit

Kelvin Mark Kargbo mkelson367@gmail.com