The International Center for Equity in Health (ICEH) played a fundamental role in Countdown 2030’s first annual multi-country workshop on immunization coverage and inequalities, which was held in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, from August 26-30, 2024. Engaging over 50 experts from 26 countries, the workshop's focus on vaccine inequality set the stage for enriching countries' analytical capacities and aiming at more equitable health outcomes across the region.

Empowering Data-Driven Decisions

During the two intensive sessions led by Professor Aluisio Barros and Francine Costa, the ICEH researchers dissected conceptual frameworks surrounding health inequalities with a focus on vaccine indicators. Sessions were organized into theoretical discussions and hands-on practical activities, enabling participants to perform in-depth inequality analyses. The use of national surveys and subnational health service data facilitated the creation of stratified vaccine indicators, allowing for more targeted policy interventions.

Supported by Countdown 2030 partners including GAVI, WHO, and UNICEF, the workshop emphasized formulating strategic recommendations for accelerating equitable vaccine distribution. The initiative resonates with ICEH’s commitment to transforming evidence-based insights into actionable public health strategies, reinforcing its role as a catalyst for health equity in Sub-Saharan Africa and LMIC countries.