The Ministry of Health of Somalia, in partnership with United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has concluded a nationwide training program for 45 journalists aimed at enhancing public awareness about childhood vaccines.
The training focused on equipping media professionals with accurate, science-based knowledge about vaccines, including those that protect against pneumonia and rotavirus diarrhea—two of the leading causes of illness and death among Somali children.
By engaging journalists from various regions of the country, the initiative aims to ensure that life-saving health information reaches diverse communities, especially in hard-to-reach and vulnerable areas.
“This training is part of our broader strategy to improve child health outcomes by empowering the media to inform and educate the public,” said a spokesperson from the health ministry.
“Journalists play a vital role in countering misinformation and promoting trust in vaccines,” the spokesperson added.
UNICEF emphasized that informed media can serve as a powerful tool in boosting vaccine confidence and demand, which is crucial for protecting children and achieving national immunization goals.
The initiative highlights the critical collaboration between government institutions and international partners in building a healthier future for Somalia’s children.