Japan and UNICEF strengthen vaccine information systems in South Sudan

Juba, 05 April 2023 – The Government of Japan has contributed USD 1 million to UNICEF South Sudan to improve the response to COVID-19 by strengthening South Sudan's immunisation information systems. The programme is rolling out a digital health information system to help health workers plan vaccination supplies and track COVID-19 vaccination rates. The information allows better access to unimmunised and under-immunised children and the remaining targeted adult population for COVID-19 vaccination.

The funding will strengthen South Sudan's health systems with Immunisation Information Systems and digital health efforts that allow for monitoring vaccination coverage and individuals receiving immunisation.

These information systems will enable an estimated 3.1 million people to benefit across four the four states it is being piloted in – Warrap, Jonglei, Upper Nile and Central Equatoria. An estimated 300,000 children under 1-year old will benefit. Across the four states, 600 health facilities are being equipped to implement Immunization Information Systems.

In addition, 93 cold chain facilities will be equipped with the digital health software which will benefit 1,500 health workers and 250 vaccine cold chain focal persons.  

"UNICEF is thankful to the Government of Japan for this crucial financial contribution. The digital health information system is essential in ensuring every eligible child and person in the four pilot states can access crucial vaccines through a strengthened health system," said Jesper Moller, UNICEF Acting Representative in South Sudan.

The core functionalities of the Immunisation Information Systems include timely monitoring of immunisation schedules, quality of record keeping and data, and identification of unvaccinated individuals, often called zero dose individuals.

Last year, Japan provided over $1 million to UNICEF South Sudan to improve cold chain management and supported the roll-out of the COVID-19 vaccine distribution to prevent the further spread of COVID-19.

H.E. Tsutsumi Naohiro, Ambassador of Japan to South Sudan, said: “Realizing human security, including the right to health, is one of the reasons why Japan supports South Sudan. I hope this project contributes to the capacity building of the health sector and facilitates South Sudanese people’s access to health services by utilizing Japanese taxpayers’ contribution.”

UNICEF South Sudan and its partners work with the Ministry of Health to roll-out out vaccination campaigns, according to the Ministry's COVID-19 National Vaccine Deployment Plan and expanded programme for immunisation.

"The investment in the health system by the Government of Japan is essential to ensure that South Sudanese children and families don’t miss out on life-saving vaccinations by supporting the establishment of timely and efficient vaccine delivery," said Mr Moller.