Deadline: 11-May-2026
The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund is funding supplemental immunization activities in Vanuatu to close critical immunization gaps. The programme focuses on strengthening health systems, improving vaccine access, and increasing community demand in low-coverage and hard-to-reach areas. It supports national and provincial health authorities to deliver coordinated, effective, and equitable immunization services.
Programme Overview
This initiative supports the Vaccine-Preventable Disease and Immunization Program led by national health authorities in Vanuatu.
The programme aims to:
- Improve immunization coverage
- Strengthen health system capacity
- Ensure equitable access to essential health services
It prioritises underserved populations and regions with low immunization rates.
Purpose and Core Objectives
Core Objectives
- Close immunization gaps in targeted provinces
- Strengthen national and subnational immunization systems
- Improve access to vaccines and essential supplies
- Increase community awareness and demand for immunization
- Enhance child health, nutrition, and protection outcomes
Key Focus Areas
Immunization Strengthening
- Supplemental immunization campaigns
- Expansion of coverage in low-access areas
- Integration with national immunization strategies
Health Systems Strengthening
- Capacity building for Ministry of Health teams
- Improved planning and coordination
- Strengthened monitoring and reporting systems
Community Engagement
- Awareness campaigns in underserved areas
- Demand generation for vaccines
- Outreach to hard-to-reach populations
Cold Chain and Logistics
- Maintenance of cold chain infrastructure
- Vaccine storage and transport systems
- Last-mile vaccine distribution
Integrated Development Outcomes
- Child health and survival
- Nutrition and micronutrients
- Education and social protection linkages
Who is Eligible?
Eligible Applicants
- Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)
- Civil Society Organisations (CSOs)
Key Requirements
- Experience in public health or immunization programmes
- Capacity to operate in Vanuatu
- Ability to coordinate with government and local stakeholders
Programme Components
1. Immunization Planning
- Strengthen national and provincial planning systems
- Update provincial microplans
- Conduct programme reviews
2. Service Delivery
- Implement supplemental immunization campaigns
- Improve outreach services in underserved areas
3. Community Mobilization
- Awareness and education campaigns
- Behaviour change communication strategies
4. Monitoring and Supervision
- Strengthen reporting systems
- Conduct supportive supervision
- Use data for decision-making
5. Supply Chain Management
- Maintain vaccine availability
- Improve inventory systems
- Ensure effective last-mile delivery
Why This Programme Matters
Public Health Impact
- Prevents vaccine-preventable diseases
- Reduces child morbidity and mortality
Equity and Access
- Targets underserved and remote populations
- Promotes gender-responsive service delivery
System Strengthening
- Builds long-term health system capacity
- Improves resilience and preparedness
How the Programme Works
Implementation Approach
- Partnership with NGO/CSO for programme delivery
- Coordination with Ministry of Health
- Targeting low-coverage provinces
- Execution of immunization campaigns
- Continuous monitoring and reporting
Key Activities
- Planning and coordination
- Community engagement
- Vaccine delivery
- Monitoring and evaluation
Expected Results
- Improved immunization planning and coordination
- Increased vaccine uptake in low-coverage areas
- Strengthened health system capacity
- Reliable vaccine availability and distribution
- Enhanced community awareness and participation
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- कमजोर coordination with government partners
- Insufficient focus on hard-to-reach populations
- Weak monitoring and reporting systems
- Poor cold chain management
- Limited community engagement strategies
Best Practices for Applicants
- Align closely with national health priorities
- Use data-driven targeting of beneficiaries
- Strengthen local partnerships
- Ensure strong logistics and supply chain planning
- Focus on measurable health outcomes
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the main goal of this programme?
To close immunization gaps and improve vaccine coverage in Vanuatu.
Who can apply?
NGOs and civil society organisations with relevant experience.
What activities are funded?
Immunization campaigns, planning, community engagement, and supply chain management.
What populations are targeted?
Underserved and hard-to-reach communities.
Is coordination with government required?
Yes, strong collaboration with the Ministry of Health is essential.
What systems are strengthened?
Planning, monitoring, and vaccine delivery systems.
What are the expected outcomes?
Improved immunization coverage, stronger health systems, and better child health outcomes.
Conclusion
This UNICEF-supported initiative plays a critical role in strengthening immunization systems and ensuring equitable access to vaccines in Vanuatu. By combining community engagement, system strengthening, and effective service delivery, the programme contributes to improved health outcomes and long-term resilience in vulnerable communities.
For more information, visit UN Partner Portal.