Suriname is preparing to introduce the pneumococcal vaccine into its national vaccination programme for children, in a move aimed at strengthening protection against serious infections including pneumonia and meningitis.

The Ministry of Health, Welfare and Labour has been working with Gavi and United Nations health partners on preparations for the rollout. Gavi is expected to cover around 50% of the vaccine introduction costs, while PAHO, WHO and UNICEF are also supporting the preparations.

The plan includes more than vaccine procurement. Authorities are also working to strengthen cold-chain storage, transportation and vaccine logistics, with the goal of improving access to vaccines in Suriname’s interior regions.

A technical team is preparing the final project proposal, which must be submitted to an independent Gavi review committee in Geneva by the end of October. Funding has not yet been fully secured, and the government is expected to continue discussions on its financial contribution.

The proposed vaccine programme could expand childhood immunisation coverage while strengthening Suriname’s vaccine storage and distribution infrastructure.