African Vaccination Week 2026: Gabon’s Renewed Commitment to Child Vaccination. Officials Commented on the Matter.
The initiative, aimed at improving vaccination coverage and protecting populations, especially children, marks a significant stride in Gabon’s healthcare strategy.
The PEV, relaunched under the stewardship of Minister of Health, Prof. Elsa Nkana Joséphine Ayo-Bivigou, has been bolstered by targeted actions.
The minister highlighted that while the national vaccination coverage hovers between 60% and 75%, it is significantly below the 90% target set in the National Health Development Plan (PNDS) 2024-2028. This underscores the need for intensified efforts to ensure no child is left unvaccinated beyond their first year.
In pursuit of this goal, the government plans to expand the PEV’s reach to every district, enhance the cold chain with solar equipment, and utilize digital tools like DHIS2 and ODK for real-time vaccine stock monitoring.
The introduction of new vaccines against diseases such as pneumococcal, rotavirus, HPV, and malaria is also on the horizon, further fortifying the nation’s defenses against vaccine-preventable diseases.
The PEV’s relaunched also aims to integrate vaccination services more closely with primary healthcare services. Prof. Ayo-Bivigou emphasized the importance of vaccination as a fundamental right for every child and a collective responsibility of every family.
She also sought to reassure the population about the safety and accessibility of vaccines, available at public health facilities without cost.
As Gabon joins the rest of Africa in commemorating the Vaccination Week, the government is optimistic about the program’s potential to bridge the vaccination gap and foster a stronger, more resilient public health infrastructure. With international partners such as the WHO, UNICEF, and Africa CDC standing alongside, the PEV relaunched signifies a critical step towards a healthier future for Gabon’s youth and population at large. Santé/Semaine Africaine de la vaccination 2026: le Gabon relance son Programme élargi de vaccination.
Africa Newsroom — Libreville, Gabon — April 21, 2026 Gabon’s Ministry of Health has relaunched its Expanded Program on Immunization (PEV) in a bid to bolster vaccination coverage and combat vaccine-preventable diseases.
The PEV’s new strategic plan focuses on routine vaccination, epidemiological surveillance, and real-time coordination to reach isolated communities. This initiative is backed by technical and financial support from international organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and the African Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).
Gabon’s current vaccination coverage for essential childhood vaccines is below international targets, with rates showing a decline in recent years.
While localized studies in Port — Gentil reported higher rates as of late 2025, national estimates from the WHO and UNICEF indicate significant gaps in routine immunization.
The relaunch of the PEV comes as the country seeks to restore confidence in its public health system after the COVID — 19 pandemic led to a decline in vaccination coverage.
Local sources report that the public perception of the PEV relaunch is generally positive, though it is tempered by historical skepticism and logistical hurdles.
The program was significantly revitalized as of 2024-2025 to address the decline in coverage following the pandemic.
According to the Gabonese Ministry of Health, the relaunch includes the development of a new operational plan, with an emphasis on reaching the most vulnerable populations.
This includes children living in remote areas and those affected by the economic impact of the pandemic.
The PEV’s relaunch is a critical step for Gabon in improving its vaccination rates and ensuring the health of its population. With the support of international partners, the government aims to close the vaccination gap and build a stronger, more resilient public health system.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 4*
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By This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Agpgabon
Source: Redaction
