In Erer, Somali Region, 14-year-old Hamda faced a tough challenge — in her community, many believed that vaccines cause infertility. Because of this, parents discouraged their children from getting vaccinated.
Everything changed when Hamda’s teacher spoke about cervical cancer and how the HPV vaccine can prevent it. Inspired, Hamda shared what she learned with her parents, but they refused to let her get vaccinated. Undeterred, she brought her teacher and the health extension worker to explain the facts to her family.
After understanding the truth, her parents agreed — and Hamda proudly received her HPV vaccine!
Now, she’s spreading the message to her friends and other girls:
“To all my sisters out there — protect your lives. Get the HPV vaccine and prevent cervical cancer.”
This inspiring story is part of the Advancing Community Health through Immunization Education and Vaccination Engagement (ACHIEVE) Project, implemented by CAAP in Warder, Geladi, and Erer Woredas of the Somali Region.
The project is supported by Girl Effect, in partnership with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.
Watch the full story from our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@caapeth
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