Leribe, Lesotho – Lesotho successfully completed its Joint Appraisal (JA) of GAVI-supported immunization programs, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to protecting its children through equitable access to life-saving vaccines.

This annual, country-led, multi-stakeholder review assesses progress, identifies challenges, and shapes strategies to strengthen immunization efforts. The three-day workshop, held from January 21 to 23, 2025, in the Leribe district, convened key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health (MoH), GAVI, WHO, UNICEF, USAID, CHAI, the World Bank, and civil society organizations (CSOs). Discussions centered on addressing gaps in immunization coverage, responding to outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs), and improving vaccine access nationwide.

The Honorable Selibe Mochoboroane, Minister of Health, reaffirmed the government’s dedication to immunization as a cornerstone of its national health policy - “Immunization is one of our top priorities. While we have faced challenges such as declines in routine immunization coverage and outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases, this Joint Appraisal presents an opportunity to identify gaps, assess ongoing strategies, and strengthen our commitment to reaching every child,” said Honorable Mochoboroane.

Dr. Innocent Nuwagira, WHO Representative in Lesotho, highlighted the progress achieved through collaborative efforts -“The Ministry of Health, together with GAVI, WHO, and other partners, has made remarkable progress. However, challenges like inequities in vaccine access, emerging infectious diseases, and health system vulnerabilities demand innovative and collaborative solutions,” expressed Dr. Nuwagira.

The appraisal identified several critical areas for improvement and established priorities to enhance Lesotho’s immunization programs. Key focus areas included expanding immunization coverage and equity, particularly targeting zero-dose and under-immunized children, and routinizing HPV vaccination while introducing HBV zero-dose vaccines. Gender-sensitive approaches were emphasized to strengthen service delivery, workforce development, and demand generation. Improvements in vaccine management, such as stock management, eLMIS rollout, and healthcare waste handling, were highlighted alongside efforts to enhance data quality through coverage survey reviews and data collection initiatives. The meeting also reviewed partner financial management, aiming to improve grant management, fund absorption, and reallocations. The appraisal further stressed the importance of evaluating vaccination campaigns, both planned and completed, and fostering stronger stakeholder coordination to achieve universal immunization coverage.

Moving forward, the Joint Appraisal stakeholders developed an action plan to address key challenges and improve immunization outcomes in Lesotho. Strengthening health systems to ensure resilience and equitable vaccine delivery, particularly for vulnerable populations, was identified as a top priority. Emphasis was placed on adopting a One Health approach to enhance cross-sectoral coordination at all levels. Finalizing the National Immunization Strategy was highlighted as essential for guiding effective implementation, while targeted social behavior change campaigns were deemed critical for driving vaccine uptake. Additionally, the appraisal called for comprehensive preparation for upcoming immunization campaigns to ensure their success.

By fostering innovation and strengthening partnerships, Lesotho aims to build a resilient health system that safeguards the health of future generations.