Abstract:
This research assesses the influence of National Vaccination Programmes on Socio-Economic Development of Beneficiaries in Rwanda, focusing on GAVI’s vaccination program in Kigali. Despite extensive research, gaps persist regarding long-term health outcomes, socio-economic impacts, community perceptions, and challenges faced. The study has four specific objectives: (i) to investigate GAVI's impact on the health status of beneficiaries in Kigali, (ii) to evaluate the program's contribution to socio-economic development, (iii) to analyze community perceptions related to disease surveillance, advocacy, and mobilization, and (iv) to identify challenges within the GAVI program and propose solutions. To achieve these objectives, the research reviewed relevant literature and aligned with four theories: resource dependency theory, theory of change, and risk management theory. Data were collected from 81,280 households and health workers in Kigali, with a purposive sample of 100 respondents. Tools for data collection included questionnaires, observations, and documentation. Findings revealed that GAVI's vaccination program significantly protects against disabilities and deaths from vaccine-preventable diseases (mean=5.00, SD=0.000), improves overall well-being (mean=4.23, SD=0.439), and saves families time and money (mean=5.00, SD=0.000). The study concluded that vaccinations have substantially reduced diseases affecting infants and children, recommending that GAVI’s program continue to enhance health equity and sustainability in Rwanda.
