Increase HPV Vaccinations in Dabil 

Assure that all girls between 9 and 14 years receive HPV vaccinations

The World Health Organisation (WHO) stated in 2023 that cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide, where low- and middle-income countries show the highest rates of cervical cancer incidence and mortality. East Africa has one of the highest cervical cancer burdens and Tanzania is one of the five countries with the highest numbers. In 2020 cervical cancer was reported to be one of the leading cancer deaths in women. Following WHO guidance, Tanzania has made the prevention and treatment of cervical cancer a health priority through multiple programs including vaccination against the human papillomavirus (HPV) and screening and treatment of pre-cancerous lesions.

The safe and highly effective HPV vaccine is used to prevent infections. The Tanzanian Government launched a vaccination campaign in 2024 targeting girls between 9 and 14 years. This is driven primarily through the schools. 

Karimu already conducted an HPV intervention in the communities of Ayalagaya and Arri. There, Karimu worked with the schools and the clinics to improve awareness of the disease and importance of the vaccinations. To improve the coordination between schools and clinics so no girl was missed, Karimu started this important intervention in Dabil with the goal that all girls aged between 9 and 14 years be vaccinated. Schools are asked to provide lists of all girls at the proper age to the dispensaries. Local leadership also identifies girls who did not go to secondary school and might otherwise be missed. With the concrete numbers of girls eligible for the HPV vaccination the required number of vaccine doses will be requested from the government. 

The vaccination of girls is planned and conducted based on the provided lists and according to the availability of respective HPV vaccine doses. All vaccinations are documented to ensure that all girls will get it and that they get it at the correct age. 

In 2025, Karimu conducted a review of school and dispensary collaboration in the implementation of HPV vaccination programs. While the program has been well-organized, several challenges remain, particularly in maintaining accurate records of vaccinated girls and addressing logistical difficulties caused by geographical barriers. Between January and August 2025, a total of 631 girls were registered and successfully vaccinated across all Dabil schools. This intervention is planned to run for 3 years over which time Karimu will assist in making sure that challenges are addressed and a well-established system is in place.

Benefits:

• Prevent cervical cancer for future generations through vaccination of girls at age 9-14.

• Educate staff in dispensaries about cervical cancer.

• Inform girls and their families about prevention of cervical cancer through vaccination. 

• Contribute to a healthier and more resilient society.