When global health funding declines, how do countries keep every child protected? In its "One Shot, Long Life!" podcast, the Global Health Advocacy Incubator spotlights lawmakers driving new solutions for sustainable immunization financing. Tune in: https://www.advocacyincubator.org/one-shot-long-life/episode-3-can-parliamentarians-help-close-the-immunization-funding-gap
Imagine this: your child's next vaccine depends on a budget meeting thousands of miles away. For millions of families in low- and middle-income countries, that's not a "what if," it's reality. Donor support is shrinking, and the big question now is — how do countries keep every child protected when outside funding disappears?
That's the focus of Episode 3 of "One Shot, Long Life!" — the Global Health Advocacy Incubator's podcast on the future of vaccines. This episode brings together Vandana Shah, Vice President for Health Systems Strengthening at GHAI, and Honorable Amos Magaji, Chair of Nigeria's House Committee on Healthcare Services, in a powerful conversation hosted by Abel Akara Ticha.
Together, they dive into the outcomes of the April 2025 Istanbul Parliamentary Forum, where lawmakers from 10 African and Asian countries made concrete commitments to increase domestic investment in vaccines. From building political will and accountability to creative approaches like earmarked health taxes, the discussion highlights strategies already shaping national budgets.
Why does this matter? Because according to WHO, UNICEF, and Gavi, the transition away from donor support is accelerating. Without reliable domestic financing, children risk missing vaccinations—and outbreaks can quickly spread across borders.
The episode unpacks real solutions: improving vaccine supply chains, strengthening data systems, ensuring funds are released on time, and learning from the Istanbul Call to Action, which is already influencing policy decisions in Nigeria.
As one GHAI expert notes: "Countries must build political will and adopt innovative financing approaches to sustain immunization programs."
The conversation also emphasizes maintaining donor engagement while countries build toward self-reliance, with a focus on reaching underserved and high-risk communities. Because sustainable immunization funding isn't just about money, it's about building systems that protect every child.
The "One Shot, Long Life!" podcast is available in English and French. Tune in today by clicking on the link in the description. Global Health Advocacy Incubator City: Washington Address: 1400 I Street Northwest Website: https://www.advocacyincubator.org/