Federal Minister for National Health Services, Regulations, and Coordination, Syed Mustafa Kamal, participated virtually in the joint session of the Gavi Board and the Polio Oversight Board (POB), where he represented the Government of Pakistan and shared key updates on national progress in the fight against polio.
"Polio eradication remains the top priority of the Government of Pakistan, and we are fully committed to achieving a polio-free future for our children," said the Health Minister during his address. He highlighted that the Prime Minister of Pakistan is personally overseeing the polio eradication efforts and chairs monthly stocktake meetings to review progress.
Sharing the latest progress, the Minister stated, "Pakistan has witnessed over a 99% decline in polio cases—a testament to our coordinated strategy, dedication of frontline workers, and the collective efforts of all stakeholders." He emphasized the implementation of a joint strategy to reach zero-dose children, with mobile biker teams mobilized to access nomadic and hard-
to-reach populations.
Underscoring the importance of global partnerships, the Minister added, "Strengthening the integrated immunization system requires continued support from both Gavi and the Polio Oversight Board. We need additional investments to ensure the training and retention of vaccinators."
He further noted that enhanced synergy between the polio and EPI (Expanded Programme on Immunization) initiatives is improving immunization coverage, while coordinated microplanning and effective monitoring are delivering tangible results in the field.
