While celebrating Kenya’s progress in child immunization—now reaching 85% coverage—the Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) has issued a stark warning about looming vaccine shortages. The group’s concern stems from Kenya’s failure to meet its $12.4 million co-financing obligation to GAVI for the current fiscal year.
With the June 30 payment deadline just months away, health officials fear critical vaccine supplies could run dry. Such a scenario would jeopardize Kenya’s hard-won gains in child health, potentially leaving millions vulnerable to preventable diseases.
KEWOPA is now urging immediate action from both the Ministry of Health and National Treasury. The parliamentary association stresses that timely payment isn’t just about honoring an agreement—it’s about protecting children’s lives. Delays could cripple Kenya’s immunization program and undo years of progress.
The association is demanding full transparency on two fronts. First, health officials must disclose current vaccine stock levels across all facilities. Second, treasury officials need to clarify payment plans to meet the GAVI commitment. These measures, KEWOPA argues, would help prevent dangerous supply gaps.
Looking to the future, the group is pushing for stronger domestic funding as donor support declines. With Kenya expected to fully finance its immunization program by 2029, KEWOPA wants a clear transition plan to ensure no child goes unprotected.
“Vaccines aren’t a luxury—they’re a lifeline,” a KEWOPA representative stated. “We won’t stand by while financial delays put children at risk. The government must act now to safeguard our future generations.”
The association has vowed to maintain pressure until the funding is secured and vaccine supplies are guaranteed. With childhood immunization at stake, KEWOPA insists this issue demands the highest priority.
