In Somalia, where access to healthcare remains a significant challenge, mothers are taking extraordinary steps to protect their children from vaccine-preventable diseases. The commitment of these mothers has become even more evident during the nationwide immunization campaign, The Big Catch-up, aimed at addressing low vaccination rates in the country.

A Mother's Determined Journey

One such mother, 20-year-old Layla Ali Nur, undertook a grueling 70-kilometer journey on foot from her remote village of Bulo-Fuur near Qansahdhere to Baidoa, the capital of South West State, to ensure her son Abdulaziz received life-saving vaccines.

“In our village, there’s no access to health services, including immunization. Since my son was born, I have never seen any vaccination services. I walked all the way to Baidoa to get him vaccinated because it’s the most important thing I can do for his health,” Layla shared.

Arriving in Baidoa, she found shelter with extended family at the Moqor-manyow camp for internally displaced people. Just two days later, the third round of The Big Catch-up initiative was launched, allowing Layla to finally vaccinate her son at an outreach site within the camp.

“The journey was exhausting. Carrying my son for 70 kilometers, battling hunger and thirst, was overwhelming. But in the end, I am grateful that my child is now protected against deadly diseases,” she said.

A Nationwide Push for Immunization

Somalia has faced recurrent outbreaks of polio, diphtheria, measles, pertussis, and neonatal tetanus due to historically low vaccination rates. In response, the Somali Ministry of Health launched The Big Catch-up campaign on July 18, 2024, as part of a global initiative to restore immunization efforts disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The program is being implemented in partnership with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the World Health Organization (WHO), and other organizations.

Targeting an estimated 1.5 million children under five who have either missed doses or never been vaccinated, the initiative also includes immunizations for adults against COVID-19 and tetanus.

“The Big Catch-up is more than just a vaccination initiative; it’s a lifeline for children in Somalia. With over half a million children already reached, we are ensuring that no child is left behind,” said Dr. Gedi Mohamed, Immunization Coordinator at WHO Somalia.

Bridging the Gap in Northern Regions

While the southern and central regions of Somalia have completed the third phase of The Big Catch-up, preparations are underway in Somaliland and Puntland. Health officials and partners remain committed to reaching every child, even in the most remote areas, to curb the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases and secure a healthier future for Somali children.

Layla's story is a testament to the resilience and determination of Somali mothers. Despite the hardships, they continue to go to great lengths to safeguard their children's health, proving that no distance is too far when it comes to protection against deadly diseases.