From Sidi Ibrahim Kaulahi, Gusau
The Health Standard Concern Organization (HESCO) in partnership with the Sultan Foundation for Peace and Development (SFPD), has keyed into implementation of the Z-TRACE Project in Shinkafi local government area of Zamfara State, with a remarkable stakeholders meeting held at Guraguri Model Primary School, Shinkafi.
The meeting witnessed the convergence of relevant stakeholders to introduce the project, discuss the challenges affecting routine immunisation, and strengthen collaboration with a view to identify zero-dose and under-immunized children across the 10 wards of the local government area.
Speaking during the engagement, the Executive Director of HESCO Abdullahi Lawali Bungudu, explained that the Z-TRACE Project is designed to identify children who had not been spotted to benefit the routine immunization as well as those who missed the recommended vaccines, locate them, facilitate referrals to immunisation services and ensure appropriate follow-up.
The project according to Bungudu, will also strengthen community participation, improve the quality of immunisation data and promote accountability among stakeholders involved in routine immunisation activities.
Participants at the meeting emphasised the need for stronger collaboration between the health authorities of the local government, communities, traditional and religious leaders, health workers, community mobilizers and other relevant stakeholders.
They noted that identifying zero-dose children requires sustained community-level engagement, accurate information and effective coordination between communities and health facilities.
The stakeholders also highlighted the importance of addressing barriers that prevent children from accessing routine immunisation services, particularly in underserved communities.
The meeting ended with a commitment by participating stakeholders to support the implementation of the Z-TRACE Project and facilitate access to communities where zero-dose and under-immunized children may be found.
HESCO and the LGA also agreed to maintain regular coordination and information sharing throughout the implementation period.
The project is expected to contribute to improved identification, referral and follow-up of missed children and ultimately support efforts to increase routine immunisation coverage in Shinkafi local government area.
The stakeholder engagement marked an important first step in the implementation of Z-TRACE, as HESCO and its partners work with local stakeholders to ensure that no child is left behind in accessing life-saving vaccines.
