The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Ghana Health Service (GHS) have teamed up with religious and traditional leaders to ensure nationwide awareness and participation in Ghana’s upcoming Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign, scheduled for October 7–11.

Speaking to the media, UNICEF Ghana Country Representative, Mr. Christopher Makkawi Khogali, emphasised the vital role of religious leaders in the campaign.

He explained that their moral authority and extensive community networks make them crucial allies in spreading accurate information and encouraging families to vaccinate their children.

“The success of this campaign depends not only on preparation by the Ghana Health Service but also on people’s awareness and willingness to seek the vaccine,” Mr. Khogali said.

“By partnering with religious and traditional leaders, we can ensure that every child in Ghana is reached.”

UNICEF and the GHS are urging leaders of faith to convey key messages to their congregations and communities, including:

Information about the vaccination campaign dates and locations

The importance of seeking the HPV vaccine for eligible children

Education on how the vaccine helps prevent HPV-related diseases

The HPV vaccine rollout is regarded as a milestone in protecting Ghanaian children against preventable illnesses.

Health officials believe the partnership with faith-based and traditional authorities will boost trust and acceptance among families, thereby increasing vaccine uptake.

With coordinated efforts, UNICEF and the GHS say they are confident that the campaign will reach every eligible child, safeguarding future generations from HPV-related diseases.