The Government of Japan has committed $3.1 million to support Pakistan’s efforts to eradicate polio, a disease that continues to threaten children across the country.
The funding, announced on December 11, 2024, will be used to procure over 20.22 million doses of oral polio vaccines for immunization campaigns in 2025.
Pakistan, one of only two countries, alongside Afghanistan, where polio remains endemic. Pakistan reported 59 polio cases in 2024.
Despite challenges, the Government of Pakistan has ramped up efforts with an aggressive action plan targeting over 45.4 million children under the age of five in each national immunization drive. Over 400,000 frontline workers, primarily women, are pivotal in ensuring every child is reached.
Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on National Health Services, expressed gratitude to Japan, stating, “The unwavering support of the Government of Japan has been instrumental in helping us get closer to reaching zero cases. Together with our partners, we will maintain an emergency focus towards resolving the remaining challenges.”
Longstanding Partnership Between Japan and Pakistan
Japan has been a steadfast partner in Pakistan’s fight against polio for nearly three decades, contributing approximately $242.194 million in grants and loans through UNICEF since 1996.
Takano Shuichi, Charge d’Affaires ad interim of Japan to Pakistan, reaffirmed Japan’s commitment during this 70th anniversary of Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) to Pakistan.
“Japan has supported Pakistan to eradicate polio for nearly 30 years, overcoming challenges such as floods, COVID, and terrorist attacks. We renew our commitment to promote routine immunization and polio vaccination in Pakistan,” Mr. Shuichi said.
UNICEF Representative in Pakistan, Abdullah Fadil, emphasized the critical role of vaccination in preventing polio’s spread, saying, “While there is polio anywhere, every child will remain at risk until the virus is eradicated. With steadfast support from partners like Japan, UNICEF remains fully committed to making Pakistan polio-free.”
The 2024 rise in polio cases underscores the urgency to intensify vaccination efforts to protect every child from the crippling disease.