UNICEF announced in September 2024 that it is working with Australia and Samoa to improve access to vaccinations in Samoa. To this end, an innovative new vaccine delivery vehicle was delivered, alongside waste management supplies such as bins and masks. These supplies are intended for the benefit of everyone living in Samoa, including healthcare providers in 13 healthcare facilities.
A vehicular ‘boost’
UNICEF describes the arrival of the Pacific nation’s first vaccine delivery vehicle as a “boost” to the health system, with positive implications for cost effectiveness and wastage of resources for healthcare workers. Until this point, a smaller vehicle has been used to transport vaccines from the airport to the National Vaccine Centre, before distribution to health care facilities. This required more trips to ensure the potency and efficiency of the vaccines was maintained.
Although Samoa has been making “steady progress” in reaching eligible children with vaccines in the national immunisation schedule and has received support from UNICEF on cold chain and capacity building, the transportation and distribution of vaccines has been identified as a “gap”. The new vehicle, procured with support from the Australian Government and UNICEF, will enable faster transportation and can protect vaccines in unfavourable weather conditions.
Strengthening the health system
Samoa’s Hon. Minister of Health, Valasi Luapitofanua To’ogamaga Tafito Selesele, expressed gratitude to the Australian Government for “timely support” and UNICEF for “able technical guidance and support”, which will help to strengthen the health system to “get equipped to provide quality services in a cost-effective way”. Australia’s High Commissioner to Samoa, H.E. Will Robinson, stated that the vehicle, although prioritised for vaccines, can be used to “accommodate the pharmaceutical supplies for distribution” to health facilities.
“Australia is proud to be a long-term partner for Samoa in achieving its vision for a healthier community and delivering better health for all.”
UNICEF Pacific’s Chief of Samoa Field Office, Khin Moe Aye, recognised that “most” of the health issues facing children in Samoa and the Pacific are preventable.
“However, preventing them requires an effective primary healthcare system well-supported by sound resources. UNICEF is pleased to partner with the Australian Government and Ministry of Health in Samoa towards the strengthening of healthcare systems. This will enable children and their families to access quality services, while also ensuring that healthcare workers benefit from better resources and services.”
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