Challenge
According to the World Health Organization, only 20% of Africans were fully vaccinated against COVID-19 during the COVID-19 pandemic due to inequitable access to infrastructure as well as vaccine hesitancy.
Solution
One partner established a vaccination network connecting leaders and problem-solvers to address continental vaccination challenges. This network required skilled personnel to manage secretariat operations across Africa. Axum staff coordinated the secretariat, developing and supporting administrative functions and implementation activities. Staff engaged with local governments and health ministries, fostering peer learning to strengthen community leadership and expand vaccine acceptance.
Impact
The initiative equipped regional and local leaders with capabilities to design vaccination campaigns, support fair vaccine access, and secure funding from public and private sources, plus community-based initiatives involving local stakeholders and health professionals.