Health and Child Care Minister Douglas Mombeshora launched a nationwide measles-rubella vaccination programme for young children on Monday, 6 October.
The launch took place at Stoneridge Clinic in Harare, where the first batch of children received the vaccine.
The campaign, running from 6 to 10 October 2025, aims to vaccinate all children aged six to 59 months with the measles-rubella vaccine, alongside essential Vitamin A supplementation.
Free vaccinations will be available at clinics, hospitals, and through outreach teams in every district.
Speaking at the launch, Mombeshora urged parents and caregivers to take their children to the nearest vaccination point and challenged vaccine hesitancy based on personal beliefs. He said:
“This campaign is sanctioned by the Government of Zimbabwe for all children, regardless of religion, beliefs, or social standing.
“Religious and cultural beliefs should never prevent a child from receiving life-saving protection.
“I call on traditional and faith leaders, community health workers and local authorities to work with health teams, dispel misinformation and ensure every child is reached.”
Mombeshora said the government has allocated US$1.9 million for the vaccination campaign. He added:
“Vaccination against measles and rubella offers dual protection in a single, safe dose, preventing suffering, disability and death. But the benefits go beyond these two diseases.
“Vaccinated children are more likely to stay healthy, attend school regularly and contribute to their families and communities. Vitamin A supplementation further strengthens immunity, helping children fight infections and thrive.
“Healthy children are not just a family blessing, they are the foundation of a strong Zimbabwe.”
He also commended development partners for their involvement, naming Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, WHO, UNICEF, Crown Agents, and others.
More: The Herald
Pindula WhatsApp Channel
Facebook Page
Leave a Reply