Islamabad: The Government of Japan has announced a $4.3 million grant to aid Pakistan in its ongoing battle against polio, focusing on the procurement of essential oral polio vaccines. This funding will enable the Pakistan Polio Eradication Initiative (PEI) to acquire over 28 million vaccine doses for its polio campaigns planned for 2027.
According to the Embassy of Japan in Pakistan, the new grant represents a continuation of Japan’s long-standing support for Pakistan’s polio eradication efforts. Pakistan remains one of the last two countries where the wild poliovirus continues to circulate, despite significant progress made in recent years. Reported polio cases have decreased from 74 in 2024 to 31 in 2025, with just eight cases recorded so far in 2026. However, challenges persist, particularly in south Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where insecurity and access constraints hinder vaccination efforts.
The persistence of the poliovirus highlights the need for sustained efforts to eliminate its transmission and protect children across the country. In response, the Government of Pakistan, with the help of its partners, has launched the National Emergency Action Plan 2026-27. This initiative is part of the Roadmap to Zero, aiming to halt poliovirus transmission by the end of 2027. National immunization drives target over 45 million children under five, supported by more than 400,000 frontline health workers.
In a statement, Ms. Ayesha Raza Farooq, the Prime Minister’s Focal Person on Polio Eradication, expressed gratitude for Japan’s timely support. His Excellency Akamatsu Shuichi, the Japanese Ambassador to Pakistan, reiterated Japan’s commitment to supporting Pakistan’s health priorities, emphasizing the shared goal of achieving a polio-free Pakistan by 2027.
Mr. Yusuke Shinozaki, Chief Representative of JICA Pakistan Office, and Ms. Pernille Ironside, UNICEF Representative in Pakistan, both acknowledged the significance of Japan’s contribution. They emphasized the vital role of international partnerships in sustaining high-quality vaccination campaigns and ensuring that no child is left unvaccinated.
Japan has been a consistent ally in Pakistan’s polio eradication initiatives since 1996, contributing over $248 million in grants and loans through UNICEF to support these efforts. The newly signed grant is expected to provide crucial resources for the ongoing fight against polio, as Pakistan strives to maintain its progress and achieve a polio-free future.