Episode 3: Can Parliamentarians Help Close the Immunization Funding Gap?

As global donor support begins to wane, how can low- and middle-income countries ensure that every child is vaccinated? In this timely episode of One Shot, Long Life, we spotlight the aftermath of the April 2025 GHAI-convened Istanbul Parliamentary Forum, where lawmakers from 10 countries across Africa and Asia committed to champion advocacy for increasing domestic funding for immunization.

Join host Abel Akara Ticha in conversation with Vandana Shah, Vice President for Health Systems Strengthening at the Global Health Advocacy Incubator (GHAI), and Hon. Amos Magaji, Chair of Nigeria’s House Committee on Healthcare Services. Together, they explore how countries can build political will, strengthen accountability and adopt innovative financing approaches—such as earmarked health taxes—to sustain immunization programs.

Discover how legislators can push for timely fund releases, how better supply chains and data systems are key to vaccine delivery and why continued donor engagement remains crucial—even as countries move toward self-reliance. Hear firsthand how the Istanbul Call to Action is already influencing budgetary decisions and oversight in Nigeria and other countries.

This is a conversation about leadership, equity and the very real possibility of vaccinating every child—even in high-risk, underserved communities.