Health Leaders Set to Convene in Mozambique for 2025 Forum on Immunization and Child Survival
Global health leaders, policymakers, philanthropists, researchers, and activists will gather in Maputo from July 22 to 24 for the 2025 Child Immunization and Survival Innovation and Action Forum, a high-level meeting aimed at fast-tracking solutions to end preventable child deaths and expand access to life-saving immunization in sub-Saharan Africa.
The forum, hosted by the Governments of Mozambique and Sierra Leone, is supported by the Government of Spain, the “la Caixa” Foundation, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and UNICEF, taking place just five years before the deadline for achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Mozambique’s Minister of Health, Dr. Ussene Isse, described the gathering as crucial, especially as global progress on child survival slows. “The decisions we make now will determine whether we deliver on the promise made to each child: to survive, thrive, and reach their fifth birthday. We must act courageously, together and without delay,” said Dr. Isse.
According to statistics, nearly 5 million children under the age of five die annually from preventable causes, with 58% of these deaths occurring in sub-Saharan Africa. While deaths from pneumonia, malaria, diarrhoea, and meningitis remain high, malnutrition contributes to 45% of global child mortality.
Sierra Leone’s Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, emphasized that innovation and coordinated strategies are key. “Breakthrough innovations such as malaria vaccines, rapid diagnostic tests, and therapeutic foods have significantly improved our ability to save lives. Integrating these into our Lifestage approach ensures that no child or opportunity is left behind.”
Her Royal Highness Infanta Cristina, Director of the International Area at “la Caixa” Foundation, added, “This forum is a unique opportunity to continue fighting against the inequalities that affect the most vulnerable populations, always in line with the SDGs.”
Sessions will explore best practices and scalable innovations in immunization, diagnostics, and nutrition. Topics will include integrated child health platforms, digital tools, community health programs, and sustainable financing, especially as global funding for immunization faces cuts. With limited room for increased domestic or donor spending, the forum will push for innovative financial solutions to maintain progress.
Dr. Yasmin Ali Haque, UNICEF Director of Health, underscored the urgency of investment: “By investing in strong, integrated primary care systems, and ensuring every child receives life-saving care, no matter who they are or where they live, we can save millions of children’s lives and build resilient futures.”
Building on the momentum of the Global Childhood Pneumonia Forums of 2020 and 2023, the Maputo meeting is expected to spark new partnerships, political will, and regional coordination.
Keith Klugman, Director of Pneumonia and Pandemic Preparedness at the Gates Foundation, issued a powerful reminder: “The final chapter in the global fight for child survival will be written on this continent. We must protect our children with the tools we have, invest in the innovations we need, and ensure that no child is left behind.”
