Focus on Africa Why has polio re-emerged in Angola?
Jul 1, 2025
Obase Sam Okoye, a Peace and Conflict Scholar at St Thomas University, delves into the troubling resurgence of polio in Angola, revealing the challenges of vaccination efforts amid misinformation and conflict. He highlights the critical role of local influencers in these campaigns while also discussing the unintended consequences of technologies like Starlink, which militants exploit for improved coordination in the Sahel. The conversation touches on broader implications for public health and the ongoing struggle against diseases in Africa.
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Polio Re-emergence Explained
- Angola was certified polio-free in 2015 but recently faced outbreaks due to importation from other countries.
- Immunity gaps and population movement, especially at borders, enable polio resurgence despite certification.
Mass Vaccination Strategy
- Vaccinate all children under five through house-to-house campaigns to close immunity gaps.
- Extensive mass vaccination plans target millions, including 554,000 in Benguela province and 6.9 million countrywide.
Vaccine Hesitancy Risks
- Immunity gaps caused by vaccination resistance can lead to outbreaks even in countries outside Africa.
- Vaccines are safe and effective, so refusal increases risk of vaccine-preventable diseases resurgence.