Papua New Guinea, 24 February 2025 – The World Health Organisation (WHO) has allocated PGK5.9 million to the National Department of Health (NDoH) to support routine immunisation through the Periodic Intensification of Routine Immunisation (PIRI) in 12 provinces in 2025. This initiative, supported by Gavi, aims to enhance immunisation coverage and protect Papua new Guineans, especially children, from vaccine-preventable diseases.
The targeted provinces include the Autonomous Region of Bougainville (ARoB), Central, East Sepik, Eastern Highlands, Jiwaka, Milne Bay, Morobe, the National Capital District (NCD), New Ireland, Southern Highlands, West New Britain, and Western. In these areas, over 79,569 (58%) of zero-dose children (unimmunised) and more than 26,904 (68%) of under-immunised children were identified, highlighting the critical need for intensified immunisation efforts.
PNG Health Minister Honourable Elias Kapavore said that the allocated budget will be used to intensify routine immunisation efforts in these provinces, ensuring that more children receive the necessary vaccines to protect them from life-threatening vaccine preventable diseases. And that the funding will support outreach activities, and community engagement to further increase immunisation coverage.
"The PGK 5.9 million funding from WHO is significant for Papua New Guinea. It will enable us to intensify our routine immunisation efforts, reaching the most vulnerable children in our communities. This support is crucial to prevent vaccine-preventable diseases and will help us build a healthier, more resilient future for all Papua New Guineans”. Added Minister Kapavore.
The anticipated achievements from supporting routine immunisation through the PIRI will contribute to the PNG’s National Health Plan 2021–2030, which aims to prevent illness, address health risks, and provide accessible and affordable health care for all. Aligning with Papua New Guinea’s Vision 2050.WHO Representative in PNG, Dr. Sevil Huseynova reaffirms WHO’s commitment: "The funding is a testament to WHO’s unwavering commitment to working with the PNG Government to improve the health and well-being of all children in Papua New Guinea. Together with NDoH, we are dedicated to reaching every child, no matter how remote, and providing essential vaccines they needed to be healthy and strong”.
The joint initiative between the WHO and NDoH, supported by Gavi, marks a significant step towards increasing immunisation rates and safeguarding the health of all children in Papua New Guinea. By collaborating, we can ensure that no child is left behind in receiving lifesaving vaccines.