Under the leadership of the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) at the Department of Health, Government of Balochistan, Dopasi Foundation with support from Gavi organized an Immunization Mela in District Lasbela to boost routine immunization and raise awareness among families in hard-to-reach communities.
The event drew senior district officials and health leaders whose participation highlighted the government’s focus on strengthening routine immunization services. Additional Deputy Commissioner Siraj Ahmed Baloch attended as chief guest alongside Dr Awais Wajid (MS DHQ Uthal and Coordinator NP), Dr Kamar Roonja, and other district health and administration officials. Their presence reinforced commitments to improving vaccine coverage across Balochistan.
Speaking to participants, the Additional Deputy Commissioner praised community-centered initiatives and noted that awareness and trust are essential to expanding vaccine uptake. Dr Farhajuddin Shaikh, Program Manager at Dopasi Foundation, underlined that EPI vaccines are safe and effective and urged continued collaboration between families, health workers, and authorities to ensure no child is left behind in routine immunization efforts.
Provincial Coordinator Abdul Qadir reminded parents of the life-saving benefits of timely vaccination and encouraged completion of vaccination schedules, particularly in underserved and remote areas where outreach is critical for strengthening routine immunization coverage.
The mela combined education with entertainment to reach more families. Activities included a magic show, musical performances, children’s rides, and interactive segments that addressed common misconceptions about vaccines. Gifts were distributed to children and mothers to encourage attendance and reinforce key health messages while Dopasi Foundation’s mascot Teeku Buddy handed out IEC materials focused on vaccination schedules and myth-busting information.
A dedicated vaccination booth at the venue allowed many mothers to have their children vaccinated on site, translating awareness into immediate action. Organisers said the turnout demonstrated strong community interest and the potential of outreach events to improve routine immunization uptake in Lasbela and similar districts.
The Immunization Mela closed with a renewed call for sustained awareness, community engagement, and coordinated efforts between government and partners to expand access to essential vaccines and protect children across Balochistan.
