![UNICEF representative to South Sudan Hamida Lasseko (left) and Canadian Ambassador-Designate to South Sudan Aly-Khan Rajani. [Photo courtesy]](https://i0.wp.com/www.sudanspost.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Untitled-design-1.png?resize=1641%2C959&ssl=1)
According to the UNICEF representative to South Sudan Hamida Lasseko, the motorcycles will help health workers reach more children and communities with life-saving vaccines, including COVID-19 vaccines.
“This equipment signifies our shared dedication to enhancing healthcare in South Sudan,” Hamida said. “With the continued support from the Government of Canada and the strong leadership of the Ministry of Health, we are now better equipped to ensure more efficient vaccine delivery and monitoring.”
Canada’s ambassador-designate to South Sudan Aly-Khan Rajani said his country funded the 80 motorcycles, which will be used by every county in the country to enhance the monitoring and supervision of immunization services.
The Canadian diplomat also said that his country is supporting procurement of 90 solar refrigerators, improved vaccine storage capacity, and community engagement activities to increase demand for immunization services.
“I am pleased to support this initiative as it represents Canada’s larger commitment to support South Sudan’s health care system,” Amb. Rajani said.
“The provision of quality and accessible health care services is critical to the economic and social development of South Sudan,” he added.
COVID-19 vaccine coverage has significantly improved in South Sudan with 73% of the target population immunized. However, regular childhood immunization still requires ongoing efforts to ensure every child is immunized against preventable diseases.
UNICEF and the Canadian Embassy in South Sudan reiterate their commitment to strengthening South Sudan’s health infrastructure and systems.
