On February 27, 2026, the Seed of Health and Development (SHAD) association unveiled the results of a pilot project, the Human-Centered Approach (HCD), implemented in three health districts in the Centre region of Cameroon. This project aimed to identify and overcome obstacles related to vaccine adoption, by proposing solutions adapted to local realities.
The results were presented at the Centre Regional Delegation meeting room, highlighting the significant impact of the HCD approach. The project focused on improving the demand and use of routine vaccination services, particularly targeting "zero-dose" children, HPV vaccination and vitamin A supplementation in the Djoungolo, Cité Verte and Nkoldongo districts.
According to SHAD, the initiative not only improved access to vaccination services, but also promoted a better understanding of vaccination schedules, the adoption of optimal nutritional practices and the importance of breastfeeding. Laurent Fouda Owona, the project manager, stressed that "behavioral barriers", such as traditions and misinformation, were a major impediment to vaccination.
Dr. Brice Edzoa, coordinator of the Expanded Immunization Program (EIP) for the Centre region, confirmed the positive contribution of the project to routine vaccination indicators. In particular, he mentioned the improvement in recall of "zero-dose" children and the emphasis on anti-HPV vaccination. Beyond vaccination, the project also helped to strengthen nutrition interventions, such as vitamin A and iron and folic acid supplementation for adolescents, as well as the promotion of breastfeeding, a priority for the Ministry of Public Health.
The project managers made several recommendations, including integrating the project's results into the Ministry of Health's data platform, continuing awareness-raising activities among parents and strengthening collaboration between districts for data collection. By targeting the social and cultural behaviors that hinder vaccination, SHAD's initiative is part of an overall strategy to improve vaccine coverage and child health in Cameroon.
Cameroon introduced the malaria vaccine into its routine immunization program on January 22, 2024 in the 42 most at-risk districts. The Seed of Health and Development (SHAD) association is a non-profit, apolitical organization working for social and economic development through the promotion of health and well-being for all in Cameroon.
