By Joseph Momoh, Reporter D.S
GENEVA — Sierra Leone has secured a major boost for its immunisation programme after Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, allocated US$60.967 million to the country under its new Gavi 6.0 strategy for 2026 to 2030.
The allocation was confirmed during a meeting between President Julius Maada Bio and Gavi Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Sania Nishtar, in Geneva on Tuesday, 13th October 2026.
President Bio welcomed the allocation and thanked Gavi for its longstanding support to Sierra Leone’s health sector, noting that the partnership has been critical in expanding vaccine coverage and strengthening immunisation systems.
He reaffirmed government’s commitment to co-financing, disclosing that Sierra Leone will contribute about US$4.8 million towards immunisation activities over the 2026–2030 period and will continue to fund over 2,500 health personnel involved in vaccine delivery across the country.
During the talks, President Bio urged Gavi to explore options for sustaining malaria vaccination coverage beyond 2027 and stressed the need for predictable disbursement of funds to ensure continuity and effective planning.
Gavi CEO Dr. Nishtar commended President Bio for his leadership and advocacy on immunisation and public health, reaffirming the Alliance’s commitment to protecting communities against vaccine-preventable diseases.
The new funding comes as Sierra Leone reports more than 90 per cent coverage for essential vaccine antigens, with nearly 90 per cent of public primary health facilities equipped with functional cold-chain equipment for vaccine storage and delivery.
Gavi’s previous support to Sierra Leone includes provision of motorbikes and trucks to strengthen health service delivery, supply of Mpox vaccines and backing for preventive Ebola vaccination.
Under the Gavi 6.0 strategy, Sierra Leone is expected to further strengthen immunisation coverage, maintain essential health services and improve access to vaccines nationwide.
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