Residents Of Mangabo Road Celebrate Increased Immunization Uptake

Residents of Mangabo Road, Tane Chiefdom, Tonkolili are witnessing a positive shift in community health as more children and adults access routine immunization services, thanks to targeted outreach efforts by the Sierra Leone Red Cross Society (SLRCS) under the Saving Lives and Livelihoods (SLL) Phase 2 Project.
A key factor in this success has been the active Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE) led by community health workers (CHWs), Red Cross volunteers, and the District RCCE team. These teams engage and mobilize residents every week, conducting door-to-door sensitization, community meetings, and awareness sessions to educate people about the importance of immunization and dispel myths surrounding vaccines.
During a recent field visit by journalists, residents expressed appreciation for these regular engagement activities. Mothers like Fatmata Kamara shared how their children now receive vaccines on schedule, citing the friendly guidance and reassurance provided by CHWs and Red Cross volunteers. “Before, I was unsure about vaccines, but the Red Cross and health workers explained everything clearly. Now I make sure my children are vaccinated on time,” she said.
Local leaders, including traditional and religious authorities, have joined the efforts, working closely with RCCE teams to encourage participation and build trust in the health system. These weekly engagements have helped Mangabo Road residents understand the benefits of vaccination, leading to improved coverage and healthier communities.
The Mangabo Road example reflects a broader impact of the SLL Phase 2 Project: increasing public awareness, promoting evidence-based health practices, and showcasing community-driven solutions. Media coverage from print, radio, and television ensures these success stories reach a wider audience, inspiring other communities to embrace immunization services.
The Project Manager Mariatu Tamba, emphasized that RCCE remains central to sustaining vaccine confidence. “Our weekly engagement through CHWs, Red Cross volunteers, and district teams is helping communities see the value of immunization firsthand. Mangabo Road is a shining example of how consistent communication, collaboration, and community participation can improve health outcomes,” she said.