Vaccines remain one of the most effective public health tools used to protect individuals and communities from life-threatening preventable diseases. However, ensuring their impact depends heavily on the capacity and readiness of the health workforce. As Ghana’s immunization landscape evolves, with new technologies and innovations, shifting disease patterns, and the introduction of new vaccines, timely and continuous training for mid-level immunization managers has become more essential than ever.

In response, the Ghana Health Service (GHS), with funding from Gavi and working with  the World Health Organization (WHO) and other key partners, is finalizing preparations for a Mid-Level Management (MLM) training programme for managers of the EPI Programme at All level and Immunization in Practice (IIP) training for personnel at the peripheral levels. The training is timely—positioning key personnel to address longstanding gaps in immunization delivery, improve planning and data use, and strengthen the system's ability to adapt to emerging needs.

From 21st to 23rd May 2025, stakeholders convened in Akuapem-Mampong for a final working session to refine the MLM and IIP training modules for the national roll-out. The workshop focused not only on adapting the WHO MLM and IIP modules to Ghana’s context, but also incorporated local resource mobilization in the context of dwindling donor support as well as leveraging social media to disseminate information, create demand, communicate achievements and acknowledge stakeholders.

“Vaccines save lives, but their impact depends on skilled delivery. By strengthening the capacity of frontline managers, we’re investing in a resilient immunization system that leaves no one behind. WHO is proud to support this effort with GHS, Gavi, and partners”, said Fred Osei-Sarpong, WHO Ghana Expanded Programme on Immunization Officer.

The workshop employed interactive methods including group work, plenary discussions, contextual material adaptation, and real-world simulation exercises to strengthen adaptive management competencies. Aligned with Ghana's National Immunization Strategy (NIS) 2025-2030 and the global Immunization Agenda 2030 (IA2030), the developed materials incorporate the latest evidence-based approaches. The development of the modules for the training was guided by four key principles: equity in vaccine access, accountability in program implementation, people-centered service delivery, and gender-responsive strategies – which are crucial for reaching every targeted person

“There’s growing complexity in today’s immunization landscape. We must strengthen our systems—improve planning, sharpen data use, and enhance service delivery. The MLM training will be key to achieving that”, said Dr. Selorm Kutsoati, Programme Manager of the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) at the Ghana Health Service. 

With the training materials now finalized, the Ghana Health Service will roll out the Mid-Level Management (MLM) training across all 16 regions and 216 districts. This nationwide effort aims to strengthen the capacity of immunization officers at regional and district levels—ensuring they are well-equipped to manage and deliver immunization services effectively and sustainably.

Ghana is positioning itself not only to launch the new vaccines effectively but also to build a more resilient and equitable immunization system that delivers life-saving vaccines to every corner of the country.

For Additional Information or to Request Interviews, Please contact:
Abdul-Lahie Abdul-Rahim Naa
Communications Officer
WHO Ghana Country Office
Email: abdullahiea [at] who.int (abdullahiea[at]who[dot]int)
Tel: +233 20 196 2393