Rwanda has consistently demonstrated its commitment to improving maternal and child health. Despite significant progress, the Demographic Health Survey 2019-2020 revealed persistent challenges. These include high neonatal mortality rates (19 per 1,000 live births), high infant mortality rates (33 per 1,000 live births), and high under-five mortality rates (50 per 1,000 live births). Additionally, the maternal mortality rate remains at 203 per 100,000 live births, with alarming rates of anemia and stunting among children and women.
In response to these ongoing issues, the Government of Rwanda, in collaboration with various partners, is launching the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Week integrated with a Measles and Rubella (MR) Vaccination Campaign from June 3 to June 7, 2024.
The campaign theme, “HEHE N’IGWINGIRA: Twite ku buzima bw’umubyeyi utwite n’umwana, imirire n’isuku, dukingize abana inkingo zose,” emphasizes the importance of maternal and child health, nutrition, hygiene, and comprehensive immunization for children. The launch event is scheduled to take place in Burera district, Nemba sector.
The objectives of the integrated MCH Week are multi-faceted:
– Increasing Population Immunity: The campaign aims to vaccinate children aged 9 months to 6 years against measles and rubella, focusing on 19 high-risk districts identified through the WHO-CDC Measles risk assessment tool.
– Providing Essential Health Services:These services include deworming, vitamin A supplementation, micronutrient powders (Ongera), and family planning services.
– Raising Awareness:The campaign will promote effective maternal and child health practices, proper nutrition, sanitation, and the importance of routine immunizations.
A comprehensive range of health interventions will be provided during the MCH Week:- **Vaccination: The campaign targets 1,222,298 children aged 9 months to 6 years in selected districts to receive measles and rubella vaccines.
– Nutritional Support: Education on breastfeeding and complementary feeding, along with the provision of essential nutrients, will be provided.
– Sanitation and Hygiene: The campaign will assess and promote WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) practices in households, schools, and Early Childhood Development (ECD) centers.
– Health Education: Preventive health messages covering topics such as handwashing, contraception, and disease prevention will be disseminated.
This integrated campaign aims to significantly reduce the rates of preventable diseases and improve the overall health of mothers and children in Rwanda. By combining vaccination efforts with broader maternal and child health services, Rwanda is committed to achieving a high level of population immunity and enhancing health outcomes for its most vulnerable populations.
This initiative underscores Rwanda’s dedication to providing comprehensive healthcare and ensuring that every child and mother in Rwanda has access to the essential health services they need to thrive.
The Government of Rwanda and its partners are hopeful that the MCH Week and MR Vaccination Campaign will lead to a healthier future for all Rwandan families. With continued efforts and community participation, Rwanda is poised to make significant progress in maternal and child health, ultimately contributing to the nation’s overall well-being and development.
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