Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal Reaffirms Pakistan’s Commitment to Polio Eradication at Gavi-POB Joint Session

Islamabad, June 19, 2025 – Federal Minister for National Health Services, Regulations, and Coordination, Syed Mustafa Kamal, reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to eradicating polio while addressing the joint session of the Gavi Board and the Polio Oversight Board (POB) virtually. Representing the Government of Pakistan, the Minister provided updates on national progress and emphasized the critical role of global partnerships in sustaining the country’s momentum toward a polio-free future.

“Polio eradication remains the top priority of the Government of Pakistan, and we are fully committed to achieving a polio-free future for our children,” said Minister Kamal. He underscored that the Prime Minister of Pakistan is personally overseeing polio efforts, chairing monthly stocktake meetings to assess progress and guide strategic direction.

The Minister shared significant developments, revealing that Pakistan has achieved over a 99% reduction in polio cases, which he attributed to a coordinated national strategy, the relentless efforts of frontline health workers, and the active collaboration of international and local stakeholders.

One of the key strategies outlined by the Minister includes the deployment of mobile biker vaccination teams, designed to reach nomadic and hard-to-reach communities, especially in remote areas with historically low immunization coverage. This targeted approach aims to close immunity gaps among zero-dose children—those who have never received a single vaccine.

Minister Kamal called on Gavi and the POB to continue their support, stating, “Strengthening the integrated immunization system requires continued investment—particularly in training and retaining vaccinators.” He emphasized that these resources are crucial to sustaining the momentum and achieving nationwide coverage.

The Minister also highlighted improved synergy between polio eradication efforts and the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI), noting that coordinated microplanning and real-time monitoring are leading to measurable improvements in vaccine delivery and coverage.

Pakistan’s participation in the Gavi-POB joint session reflects its ongoing partnership with the global health community in tackling vaccine-preventable diseases. With continued commitment, innovative outreach strategies, and sustained international collaboration, the country aims to close the final gap in polio eradication.