Submission ID 118509
| Issue/Objective | The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted global disparities in vaccine distribution, with low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) facing significant challenges. Rwanda emerged as an exemplar in pandemic response, achieving remarkable vaccination coverage despite limited resources. This study explores Rwanda's high vaccine acceptance prior to rollout and the strategies that contributed to its successful vaccination program. |
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| Methodology/Approach | A national cross-sectional survey was conducted in Rwanda prior to vaccine rollout, involving 1,010 participants randomly selected from urban and rural areas. Telephone interviews assessed perceptions of COVID-19 vaccine importance, safety, readiness for vaccination, and prioritization of target groups. Vaccination coverage data were analyzed using Johns Hopkins University's Global Vaccination Time Series and World Bank population datasets. |
| Results | The survey revealed that 96.7% of respondents recognized the importance of COVID-19 vaccination, 87.9% believed the vaccines were safe, and 93.2% expressed willingness to be vaccinated. Priority groups identified for vaccination included healthcare workers (78%) and vulnerable populations (75%). Rwanda achieved 70% full vaccination coverage within 533 days, surpassing other LMICs, with rates reaching 78.9% by September 2022. Key success factors included decentralized healthcare delivery, community health worker (CHW) engagement, mobile vaccination teams, and robust public communication campaigns. |
| Discussion/Conclusion | Rwanda's success in COVID-19 vaccination underscores the importance of community trust, government commitment, and innovative delivery strategies in overcoming logistical and equity challenges. The high pre-rollout vaccine acceptance and rapid coverage expansion offer valuable lessons for LMICs aiming to improve pandemic preparedness and vaccination programs. |
| Presenters and affiliations | Pacifique NDISHIMYE Stansile, Western University Jean Claude UDAHEMUKA Stansile, University of Rwanda Menelas NKESHIMANA Ministry of Rwanda |
