Uganda must stop outsourcing its children’s immunity

What the report says

The Observer reports that Uganda is preparing a five-day measles-rubella vaccination campaign beginning October 1, aimed at reaching about 7.47 million children aged nine to 59 months. The drive comes after measles outbreaks were recorded in 66 districts in 2025 and a further 18 districts this year, underscoring pressure on the country’s immunization system.

According to the report, the campaign is intended to restore immunity that has been weakened by missed routine vaccinations linked to COVID-19 disruptions, refugee inflows and reduced donor support. The article quotes Dr Michael Baganizi of Uganda’s National Expanded Programme on Immunization as saying the campaign complements, rather than replaces, the routine schedule given at nine and 18 months.

The piece argues that emergency vaccination efforts can help close immediate gaps but cannot substitute for a durable health system. It highlights the importance of cold-chain infrastructure, trained staff, reliable vaccine supply, community outreach and accurate records, while also noting the need to address misinformation and vaccine confidence.

The report says the campaign will cost Shs 21.8 billion, with funding shared by the government and partners including Gavi. It says broader lessons for Uganda include protecting domestic financing for immunization, improving district-level data, and making routine vaccination more accessible so that childhood immunity does not depend on repeated emergency campaigns.