On March 8, International Women’s Day, we celebrate the dedication and resilience of women working to eradicate polio across the globe. From frontline health workers to community mobilizers, their leadership is instrumental in overcoming challenges and reaching every child with life-saving vaccines. These stories highlight the invaluable contributions of women in the fight against polio and showcase their determination to create a healthier future for all.
👩⚕️ Catherine Russell on Women’s Role in Eradicating Polio
UNICEF’s Executive Director, Catherine Russell, emphasizes the vital role that female vaccinators, health workers, and community leaders play in advancing polio eradication and gender equity in global health. Women’s participation not only strengthens immunization campaigns but also fosters trust within communities, ensuring that no child is left behind. Read more
🇬🇳 Empowering Women in Guinea: A Doctor’s Dedication
Dr. Isabelle Saran Manoh has been at the forefront of Guinea’s polio vaccination campaign, demonstrating the impact of female leadership in public health. Her efforts in the 2024 campaign contributed to an impressive 154% coverage rate, proving how women are shaping the success of immunization programs. Read more
🇰🇪 On the Frontlines: Mobilizing Nairobi’s Communities
In Nairobi, Fatuma Mohamed Ahmed, a UNICEF-supported community health mobilizer, plays a crucial role in bridging traditional beliefs and modern immunization efforts. Through culturally sensitive engagement, she ensures that vaccine information reaches families in the most vulnerable communities. Read more
🇲🇬 The Royal Compound of Kparsi: A Powerful Commitment to Reducing Polio in Djougou Commune
First Lady Mialy Rajoelina of Madagascar is leading the charge against polio in 2024, actively participating in vaccination campaigns and engaging with global health organizations. As the godmother of vaccination, she continues to encourage parents across Madagascar to ensure their children are vaccinated against polio and other preventable diseases. From hosting high-level delegations to personally launching immunization campaigns, her advocacy has been instrumental in promoting vaccine uptake. Read more
🇨🇩 Overcoming Doubt: Mrs. Josephine Leads Her Community Toward a Polio-Free Future in Dibaya, DRC
In the Dibaya Health Zone of DR Congo, Mrs. Josephine transformed from a skeptical mother to a dedicated vaccinator in the fight against polio. After realizing the devastating effects of the disease, she not only vaccinated her own child but also joined vaccination campaigns to educate and protect other children. Her inspiring journey highlights the importance of community involvement and serves as a powerful call to action for parents to vaccinate their children. Read more
🇨🇩 A Mother’s Fight Against Polio: Aloki’s Story of Resilience and Advocacy
Aloki Konga, a mother from Ototo, Sankuru Province in DRC, turned personal tragedy into advocacy after her first child was diagnosed with polio. Determined to prevent similar suffering for others, she educated herself about vaccination and became a vocal advocate in her community. Today, she goes door-to-door, ensuring that families understand the importance of immunization. Her story is a testament to the power of personal commitment in overcoming vaccine hesitancy. Read more
🇨🇩 Turning Personal Tragedy into Community Triumph: Julienne Zirage’s Crusade Against Polio in Kadutu
Julienne Zirage Bashoga, a 34-year-old woman from Bagira, DRC, has become an inspiring figure in the fight against polio in Kadutu. Despite being paralyzed by polio since childhood, she now dedicates her life to ensuring no child suffers the same fate. Through community education, radio advocacy, and working alongside vaccination teams, she has transformed skepticism into action. Her efforts demonstrate the power of lived experience in changing attitudes toward immunization. Read more
🇲🇼 Malawi: Polio Eradication Begins at Home
Shorai Nyambalo-Ng’ambi, an SBC Specialist at UNICEF Malawi, shares her personal and professional journey in polio eradication. As both a mother and a UNICEF technical expert, she ensures that her own children are vaccinated while contributing to national immunization campaigns. Her dual role exemplifies how personal commitment and professional expertise intersect to protect communities from polio. Read more
Recognition Beyond March 8
Women’s contributions to global health deserve recognition not only on International Women’s Day but every day of the year. Their work in polio eradication—whether in vaccine delivery, advocacy, or research—continues long after the celebrations end. It is essential to sustain our support, elevate their voices, and advocate for resources that empower them to lead. Let’s ensure that the impact of these women is recognized, celebrated, and strengthened all year round.