In middle-income countries, improvements in economic indices are often not matched by enhancements in immunization program capacity or increases in domestic financial allocations for health and immunization programs. These countries continue to depend on UNICEF and WHO for technical support, despite inadequate resources to meet demand.
With uncertain funding for immunization and reduced access to overseas development assistance, we observe new challenges related to mobilizing and directing financial resources to the places most in need. UNICEF must therefore continue to diversify its immunization funding, explore new funding sources and strengthen advocacy for fundraising at all levels.
Further, inequity among middle-income countries (MICs) that are not eligible for GAVI support is significant, leading to disproportionate access to basic health services, including immunization. It is essential to support the generation of evidence surrounding inequities in immunization to ensure that immunization services in MICs meet the needs of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged population
There is still a paucity of evidence regarding the inequities in immunization. Using data from nationally representative Demographic and Health Surveys, MICS, and strategic immunization plans, UNICEF regional offices in SSA launched a study aiming at examining the trends in socioeconomic inequities in immunization coverage, access, and utilization in 7 upper-middle-income countries in SSA (i.e., South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Angola, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, and Cape Verde). The study result is necessary to facilitate specific, equity-focused interventions so every child is reached with immunization services.