With nearly 70,000 children missing out on routine vaccinations, Niger’s immunization challenge goes beyond access; it is a systemic issue rooted in weak coordination, outdated data systems, and community distrust. This challenge is compounded by the country’s vast and difficult terrain; 80% of Niger is covered by the Sahara Desert, leaving many communities isolated from healthcare services. For families in these remote areas, access to vaccination centers is not just a logistical hurdle but a financial strain, as transportation costs often deter parents from seeking essential immunization for their children.
Beyond geography, systemic challenges have also hindered vaccine delivery. Weak leadership structures, poor coordination, and outdated data systems have slowed the rollout of immunization programs, leaving thousands of children vulnerable to preventable diseases.
To support Niger’s efforts to vaccinate zero-dose children, GAVI partnered with the Solina Consortium—a coalition of Solina Health, AFENET, and ROASSN—to drive transformative interventions that improve immunization outcomes across the country.
To bridge Niger’s immunization gap, targeted interventions are transforming vaccine delivery:
✅ Stronger Leadership & Coordination
With poor coordination slowing vaccine rollout, 112 immunization officials were trained in management, problem-solving, and strategic planning to smoother distribution and better outreach.
✅ Smarter Data for Better Decisions
Outdated systems made tracking unvaccinated children difficult. Now, health workers use DHIS2, Excel, and ODK/KOBO Collect to streamline data, reduce delays, and improve vaccine stock management. Regular data reviews ensure no child is missed.
✅ Rebuilding Community Trust
Misinformation and cultural hesitancy kept families away. By training local leaders and mothers as vaccine champions, we’re breaking down fears and encouraging more parents to seek immunization.
In just 12 months, immunization rates have surged and health teams now hold regular data review meetings, ensuring that every child is counted and reached.
This is just the beginning. Inspired by these successes, Niger’s health leaders are scaling up the approach; expanding Solina’s model to more districts and embedding stronger systems for sustainable, community-led immunization.
By investing in leadership, data, and local engagement, the GAVI-Solina Consortium is building a resilient health system in Niger that will protect generations to come.
Voices from the Field
Regional Immunization Coordinator, Dosso"Previously, there was no dedicated structure for reviewing immunization data. The GAVI EPI LMC intervention has established a robust data review process, leading to improved data quality."
Epidemiologist, TahouaSolina’s intervention has significantly enhanced our LMC knowledge through training, technical support in data analysis and monitoring with CMR PEV, creating favorites in DHIS2, and organizing data analysis meetings. This support has greatly improved my ability to monitor indicators and analyze data at all levels.
