BY: NEWS DESK.
The Borno State African Health Budget Network (AHBN) Zero Dose Learning Hub (ZDLH) Community of Practice (CoP) has conducted its third-quarter review meeting, marking a step towards enhancing immunization budget tracking, transparency, and accountability in the state.
Held on December 14, 2024, at the Dujima International Hotel in Maiduguri, the meeting brought together stakeholders from various sectors, including government, civil society organizations, media, and development partners.
At the meeting, participants reviewed the community's activities in 2024 and made projections for 2025.
They also discussed the development of a scorecard for immunization budget tracking, which will enable the CoP to advocate for improved financing for routine immunization and address gaps in services, particularly in the two ZDLH Local Government Areas (LGAs) of MMC and Jere.
A proposal was made to establish a committee comprising at least five members from government, CSOs, and development partners. This committee will work on developing a scorecard template to assess the state's readiness to address gaps in immunization financing and budget tracking.
Prior to the meeting, CoP members conducted a facility assessment tour of two health facilities in Jere LGA: Dalaram PHC and Gongulong PHC. They evaluated the level of health services provided and identified gaps for future engagement with policymakers.
Also an advocacy visit was made to the district head of Khadamari, Alh. Baba Abba Hassan Umar, to provide feedback on the identified gaps and encourage his support in addressing skilled manpower shortages at the facilities.
The meeting demonstrated the commitment of stakeholders in Borno State to improving immunization budget tracking and services.
With the proposed scorecard and committee in place, the state is poised to make significant strides in addressing gaps in immunization financing and ensuring that all children have access to life-saving vaccines.
The meeting was attended by notable stakeholders, including Dr. Mala Abdulwahab, Malam Sanusi, Dr. Jamiu, Dr. Fugu, Dr. Anna Peter, Prof. Bukar Bakki, Ismail Auwal, Mr. Bunu Mohammed, Mohammed Ngubdo, Mr. Ali Yerima Gamboru, Haj. Hussaina Mohammed, and Haj. Aisha Talba Ballama, among others.