Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) has called on government to increase funding for child immunisation amidst the US funding freeze which has crippled programs and left millions of children vulnerable.

KEWOPA said the government’s delay in fulfilling its co-financing obligations could lead to severe vaccine shortages and jeopardize child health nationwide.

MPs warned that millions of children remain vulnerable unless the government steps up to bridge the funding gap.

“This is not a matter for further delay — the health of our children is at stake. Timely payment is essential to ensure a continuous and reliable vaccine supply,” KEWOPA said in a statement.

KEWOPA acknowledged Kenya’s progress in immunization coverage, which currently stands at 85 percent, and efforts to reduce the number of zero-dose children.

However, MPs expressed grave concern over the delayed payment of Kenya’s co-financing requirement for this financial year amounting to Sh1.614 billion.

Despite the looming June 30, 2025, deadline, no payment has been made, putting millions of children at risk.

“The Ministry of Health and the National Treasury must act with urgency to prevent a vaccine stockout that could reverse years of progress in immunization,” KEWOPA emphasized.

MPs further said immunization programs in Kenya rely heavily on donor funding, which is rapidly declining, urging the government to increase domestic allocations to ensure sustainability.

“Kenya must progressively increase its domestic financing for immunization to sustain the progress we have made,” KEWOPA stated.

The legislators also urged the Ministry of Health to provide the National Assembly with an immediate status report on the country’s vaccine stock levels.

This report should outline available stock at central stores, county, and facility levels while mapping projected vaccine needs against procurement plans to prevent shortages.

“We need full transparency on the  country’s vaccine stock to ensure preparedness and avoid potential stockouts,” KEWOPA said.

KEWOPA continues to push for increased allocations, ensuring that every child in Kenya has access to life-saving vaccines.

“We need to see clear commitments from the government to ensure no gaps in vaccination coverage as Kenya transitions to self-financing.”

KEWOPA reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for vaccine access, stressing that child health must remain a top government priority.

“The well-being and future of our children are non-negotiable. Immunization financing should not be seen as a privilege but a priority,” the association declared.