The Government of Japan has reaffirmed its commitment to Pakistan’s polio eradication efforts by enabling the procurement of millions of oral polio vaccine doses for the 2026 campaigns. The newly announced US$3.5 million grant aims to ensure an uninterrupted vaccine supply as Pakistan intensifies measures to stop poliovirus transmission.
Each nationwide round is planned to reach more than 45 million children under five, delivered by an estimated 400,000 dedicated frontline workers across the country. Continuity of supply is critical to maintaining campaign momentum and protecting children in hard-to-reach areas.
Commenting on the support, UNICEF Representative in Pakistan Pernille Ironside said, “Japan’s support continues to be instrumental in ensuring that every child, no matter where they live, receives the polio vaccine. Together, we are building a future free of polio.” The partnership highlights international backing for Pakistan’s intensified polio vaccination drive.
Japan has been one of Pakistan’s most steadfast partners on this front, contributing more than US$245 million since 1996 to protect millions of children from polio. The latest grant is positioned to keep vaccine stocks steady as Pakistan prepares for the 2026 campaign cycle and works toward interrupting poliovirus transmission nationwide.
With this renewed support, health authorities and partners are focused on sustaining high coverage through the polio vaccination campaigns and ensuring that frontline teams have the supplies needed to reach every eligible child.
