The Gambella region in Ethiopia has wrapped up a wide-reaching cholera vaccination drive, bringing protection to more than 990 communities. Led by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI), the campaign started in March and focused on stopping cholera in one of the hardest-hit parts of the country.
Since cholera cases first appeared in February 2025, Gambella has faced a tough battle. Health teams set up 16 temporary treatment centers and sent out about 30 water tankers to help neighborhoods with shortages. Alongside the vaccine rollout, crews went door to door disinfecting homes, testing and treating water, building latrines, and talking with families about how to stay safe.
WHO backed the campaign by sending in rapid response teams, helping Ethiopia get over a million vaccine doses, and training local vaccinators. They also supplied medical kits for more than 1,700 patients and brought in hygiene materials for the community.
Support came from several partners, including the Central Emergency Response Fund, Japan Supplementary Budget, European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations, and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. Dr. Abel Assefa Zugi, who leads the Gambella Regional Health Bureau, said, “The intervention has already shown encouraging results, with a marked decline in severe cholera cases within just ten days of the campaign.”
This work is part of Ethiopia’s larger goal to eliminate cholera and fits into the worldwide plan to end cholera by 2030. The campaign not only stopped the outbreak but also helped lay the groundwork for better water, sanitation, and hygiene for the future.
