A recent survey by the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR) shows that gaps in childhood immunization remain a concern, despite Rwanda’s strong performance in vaccination coverage.
The seventh basic childhood immunization survey, released in 2025, reveals that the proportion of children who receive all recommended vaccines has dropped by 2 percent compared to levels recorded since 2020.
Parents Acknowledge Importance of Vaccine
At a health center in Huye town, commonly known as CUSP, parents seeking health services stressed that vaccines are vital in protecting children from life-threatening diseases.
Mukamana Alice, a mother of a nine-month-old child, said vaccination is a priority in her household.
“I strictly follow the vaccination schedule because an unvaccinated child is at high risk of serious diseases. Vaccines help children grow up healthy,” she said.
Another parent, Habimana Jean Claude, shared that his experience confirms the value of immunization.
“All my children have been vaccinated on time, and they are healthy. Vaccines prevent diseases that can be avoided early,” he noted.
Survey Shows Persistent Gaps
Despite widespread awareness, the NISR data indicates that eight out of every 100 children in Rwanda do not receive all required vaccines according to schedule.
Health experts warn that even small gaps in immunization coverage can expose children and communities to preventable diseases.
Parents Cite Daily Challenges
Some parents attribute missed vaccinations to everyday pressures and limited follow-up.
Uwamariya Claudine, a resident of Mukura Sector in Huye District, said household responsibilities can interfere with clinic visits.
“Sometimes we are given a return date and forget it because of many duties at home. This causes children to miss vaccines,” she said.
Others point to a lack of information as a contributing factor.
Ndayishimiye Patrick, another parent, said more education is needed.
“Some parents are not fully aware of the importance of vaccines, so they do not treat them as urgent. Continuous awareness campaigns are necessary,” he said.
Health Authorities Urge Responsibility
Health officials have urged parents to take vaccination schedules seriously.
Dr. Sibomana Hassan, Head of the Immunization Program at the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC), emphasized that vaccines are critical to child survival.
“Vaccines are a cornerstone of disease prevention. Parents must ensure children receive all vaccines on time to grow up healthy,” he said.
Call for Stronger Community Follow-Up
The 2025 survey concludes that while Rwanda maintains commendable immunization levels, more effort is needed to reach every child.
Experts warn that without stronger community awareness, reminder systems, and follow-up of missed appointments, the number of under-immunized children could increase.
Such gaps could lead to outbreaks of preventable diseases, placing children’s lives at unnecessary risk.
