October 16 | Dodoma, Tanzania
Empowering Change Through SMS Campaigns: Tanzania Hosts National Policy Conference on COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake
The National Policy Conference titled “SMS Campaign to Increase COVID-19 Vaccine Take-Up in Tanzania” took place in Dodoma on October 16, 2024, as part of the PEP experimental impact evaluation initiative. This initiative, funded by the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation under the Strengthening Impact Evaluation Capacities for Development (SIECD) program, is designed to promote evidence-based policymaking and foster local capacities for autonomous research in East and West Africa. The conference was led by the project team and supported by principal research scientists from National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR) and the Economic and Social Research Foundation (ESRF).
The conference brought together key stakeholders, policymakers, researchers, and health advocates.
Bridging the Gap in Vaccine Hesitancy
The conference showcased findings from a comprehensive study on COVID-19 vaccine uptake. Despite earlier challenges of misinformation and vaccine hesitancy, Tanzania has achieved remarkable progress, with 87% of the eligible adult population vaccinated as of April 2023. Strategies like behavioral insights, community health worker (CHW) engagement, and the Initiative for Global Vaccine Access (Global VAX) were presented as models for success.
Spotlight on SMS Campaigns
A key highlight was the presentation by Ms. Noela Ringo, a researcher at ESRF, on leveraging SMS campaigns to address vaccine hesitancy. This innovative approach included tailored messages targeting diverse demographic groups and leveraging behavioral nudges to encourage vaccination. While findings revealed mixed effects, the insights gained provide actionable recommendations for future health interventions.
Interactive Discussions and Policy Recommendations
Following presentations by experts such as Dr. Johnson Mshiu, Research Statistician at National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR), participants engaged in lively discussions. Stakeholders, including representatives from AMREF Health Tanzania, the Tanzania Red Cross Society (TRCS), and USAID, contributed valuable perspectives on challenges, resource needs, and community-level engagement. Policy recommendations emphasized integrating behavioral strategies with local leadership and CHW contributions to enhance impact.
Journalists from Dodoma FM and TV covered the event, amplifying awareness of the research findings and policy implications. Their involvement ensured the messages reached a broader audience, enhancing public understanding of vaccine uptake efforts.
Next Steps
The conference concluded with a commitment to sustained collaboration and innovative approaches to address vaccine hesitancy and ensure broader immunization coverage. Closing remarks by Dr. Kilale, Principal Research Scientist at NIMR, reiterated the importance of evidence-based policies and local partnerships in achieving Tanzania’s health goals.
