Vaccination Challenges in the Sahel Amidst Jihadist Violence and Political Instability
The ongoing conflict in the Sahel region of Africa, fueled by jihadist violence and political instability, poses significant challenges to vaccination campaigns, threatening the health of vulnerable populations.
Jihadist Restrictions
In central Mali, jihadist groups initially resisted vaccination efforts due to religious beliefs and mistrust of Western medicine. They perceived vaccines as carriers of diseases, hampering the delivery of essential immunizations to children. However, faced with the devastating effects of a measles outbreak, they eventually allowed health workers to enter the villages and vaccinate the children.
This incident highlights the complex dynamics between jihadist groups and vaccination in the Sahel. While some groups oppose vaccination based on religious beliefs, others recognize the importance of protecting their communities from preventable diseases.
Violence and Insecurity
Jihadist activities also lead to violence against health workers and humanitarian organizations, disrupting vaccination efforts. In 2020, a third of all abductions of humanitarian workers worldwide occurred in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. In October 2024, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) was forced to suspend its activities in Mali and Burkina Faso due to attacks and violence against its staff.
Political Obstacles
In addition to the challenges posed by jihadist violence, military juntas in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have imposed restrictions on NGOs and humanitarian organizations. The junta in Mali has banned NGOs funded by France, including those involved in humanitarian assistance.
These political obstacles further hinder the ability of organizations to reach vulnerable communities and deliver vital health services.
Accumulation of Unvaccinated Children
The disruption of vaccination campaigns has led to an increasing number of children not receiving or being under-immunized. In 2023, Sudan, Mali, and Chad had significant proportions of unvaccinated children, leaving them susceptible to vaccine-preventable diseases like polio, diphtheria, and measles.
Between 2022 and 2023, measles cases surged in Chad, while polio cases tripled in Burkina Faso. This accumulation of unvaccinated children poses a significant risk of outbreaks of deadly diseases.
Consequences for Health
The lack of access to vaccination in the Sahel has dire consequences for the health and well-being of children and communities. Outbreaks of preventable diseases like measles and polio can lead to serious health complications, including death.
Call for Action
The international community must prioritize the protection of health workers, humanitarian organizations, and vulnerable populations in the Sahel. This includes ensuring safe access to vaccination services and working with local communities to address concerns and promote the importance of immunizations.
Investment in long-term health systems strengthening is also crucial to ensure that communities have access to essential health services, even in challenging circumstances.
