Africa-Press – Eswatini. Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and other development partners, officially launched the National Measles-Rubella Vaccination Campaign at Moti Clinic on 04 August 2025, marking a bold step in Eswatini’s fight against vaccine preventable diseases.
The campaign seeks to protect children from measles, a highly contagious disease that continues to pose a threat, especially in areas with low vaccination coverage. If not addressed early, measles can result in serious complications, lifelong disabilities, or even death. Yet, as highlighted at the launch, it is a disease that can be entirely prevented through safe and effective vaccination.
Dr. Susan Tembo, WHO Representative, said the campaign goes beyond disease prevention, it demonstrates leadership, strong partnerships, and a resilient health system working to ensure that no child is left behind, whether in urban, rural, or hard to reach areas.
WHO commended the Ministry of Health for the extensive groundwork that made the campaign possible, including resource mobilisation, community engagement, and health worker training. Dr. Tembo described these efforts as essential in achieving high coverage and halting measles transmission.
The campaign also adopts an integrated approach, strengthening routine immunisation by including additional interventions such as polio vaccination, vitamin A supplementation, Albendazole deworming, and enhancements to data quality and disease surveillance. According to WHO, this kind of strategy not only addresses immediate needs but also helps the country “build back better” following disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dr. Tembo encouraged all sectors of society from policymakers to parents to play an active role in ensuring that every eligible child receives the life saving vaccines now available. She reminded the public that the health and development of children depend on early protection from preventable diseases like measles.
“Behind every number is a life,” she said. “And every child deserves a healthy start for proper development and growth into strong and productive adults.” WHO reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Government of Eswatini in eliminating measles and reaching broader goals around immunisation and universal health coverage.
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