A three-day workshop to review the activities of the Routine Immunization Program for the 2025 (solar year) has been held in the northern zone

The program, led by the Director of Afghanistan’s National Expanded Program on Immunization (NEPI), Dr. Abdul Hakim Hemat, was launched on 17 Hamal 1405 (Solar Hijri) in the presence of NEPI managers, technical staff from Balkh, Sar-e-Pol, Jawzjan, and Samangan provinces, as well as representatives of partner organizations, and continued for three days.

During the workshop, activities from the 2025 solar year were reviewed, including immunization coverage, service quality, data analysis, cold chain management, outreach to remote areas, coordination among partners, and identification of key gaps and challenges.

Dr. Abdul Hakim Hemat emphasized that all staff and officials should align their work with the principles and regulations of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, as well as the national health policy and vaccination strategy.

Such workshops have previously been held in different regions of the country, where emphasis was placed on evidence-based planning, capacity building of healthcare workers, effective monitoring and evaluation, improved vaccine logistics management, and better coordination among different levels of the health system.

Participants also shared their experiences, views, and suggestions aimed at strengthening the immunization system, improving service quality, and ensuring equitable and comprehensive coverage for all children in need.

Dr. Abdul Hakim Hemat further stated that, in light of the existing challenges, a structured plan (RI Roadmap) should be developed for routine services to address the current issues in 2026, and provincial officials will be responsible for its implementation.