At 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva: Minister calls for renewed war against polio.

Taking the floor during a plenary session, Dr Manaouda reaffirmed Cameroon’s determination to eradicate polio. He commended the World Health Organization, WHO, for its sustained support, but stressed that more needs to be done, particularly in countries like Cameroon, where structural and security-related obstacles continue to hinder progress.

“Insecurity has rendered some parts of our country inaccessible to health workers. This, combined with gaps in routine immunization and the persistence of cross-border transmission, poses a serious threat to our national and regional eradication goals,” Dr Manaouda stated. 

He cited among others financial limitations, noting that the polio fight requires not only international solidarity but also innovative funding models. In response, Cameroon has proposed a multi-pronged strategy aimed at strengthening the polio response on several fronts.

Among the proposed measures cited is the need to enhance cross-border coordination, the accelerated rollout of the hexavalent vaccine, and the integration of polio eradication efforts into a more resilient and sustainable health system.

The proposals, the member of government said, aligns with the Immunization Agenda 2030, IA2030, a global vision to leave no one behind in immunization efforts.

“We are also working to ensure equitable and sustainable vaccine coverage, even in most complex humanitarian settings where access to health services remains limited,” the minister added.

According to sources, Cameroon’s intervention comes at a time when the global fight against polio has seen significant achievements, yet remains unfinished. 

While many regions have been declared polio-free, outbreaks continue to emerge, especially in areas plagued by conflict and weak healthcare infrastructure.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3457 of Tuesday May 27, 2025