This month, EMPHNET played a key role in supporting the immunization efforts of the Sudan Federal Ministry of Health (FMoH). It contributed to various activities that fulfill the broader goal of improving vaccine coverage and service delivery in Sudan. These initiatives are designed to enhance both the strategic framework and operational components of Sudan’s Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI). They were held in collaboration with the Sudan FMoH and supported by GAVI.

The first activity conducted was the EPI Planning Workshop held in Kassala from February 9 to 11, 2025. This workshop highlighted key achievements, including the introduction of the malaria vaccine despite ongoing challenges. During the session, EMPHNET’s Technical Advisor, Dr. Elfatih Malik, emphasized several collaborative projects with the FMoH, including the launch of three cohorts under the Public Health Empowerment Program – Expanded Program on Immunization/Surveillance for Polio Officers (PHEP-EPI/SPO). EMPHNET also conducted a training session on the newly introduced digitalized microplanning system, covering vaccine and supply calculations, data collection systems, and an overview of the immunization dashboard.

The EPI Mid-Year Review Meeting was held back-to-back in Kassala from February 13 to 15, 2025. This meeting focused on reviewing implemented activities and identifying key areas for improvement since the last session in October. It provided a platform to reflect on achievements, challenges, and lessons learned, paving the way for strengthening Sudan’s immunization services.

Furthermore, on February 16, 2025, EMPHNET organized a One-day Coordination Meeting to strengthen collaboration between EPI, the FMoH, and partners. The meeting focused on evaluating the progress of the coordination platform customized by EMPHNET, designed to enhance partner coordination, follow-up, and activity documentation. The session focused need to further strengthen coordination mechanisms to ensure better synchronization among stakeholders involved in immunization efforts.

Lastly, from February 15 to 18, 2025, a separate workshop on the Digitization of GIS-Microplanning was held for the states of Gedarif and Blue Nile. The workshop sessions were focused on digitizing the malaria immunization plan for 2025. As a whole, the session served to advance Sudan’s immunization efforts by integrating electronic tools that streamline immunization operations and planning, enabling states to monitor implementation, generate precise performance indicators, and track disease patterns targeted by immunization.

Through these initiatives, EMPHNET strengthens its commitment  to supporting Sudan’s immunization program, addressing operational needs, enhancing digital capabilities, and improving coordination among key health partners. These efforts are an essential part of the ongoing work to enhance immunization services across the country.