Ensuring vaccines are available when and where they are needed depends not only on supply, but on how accurately countries can predict demand and plan distribution. This challenge was the focus of a five-day Regional Training of Trainers (ToT) on Immunisation Forecasting & Supply Planning (iFSP) which concluded in Nairobi on 22 May, 2026.

The programme which was organised by the EAC RCE-VIHSCM in partnership with the UNICEF Supply Division, was attended by 20 health supply chain and immunization professionals from EAC National Immunization Programmes, Central Medical Stores, Faith-Based Organizations, as well as delegates from non-EAC countries such as Eritrea and Namibia. This enabled interactive sessions where participants shared country experiences in vaccines planning and distribution, enriching collective learning and regional collaboration.

Leveraging Tools
Central to the training was the UNICEF’s #FSP4All tool, a digital platform designed to make forecasting more precise and supply planning more reliable. Through hands-on sessions, participants explored how to anticipate demand, reduce wastage, and strengthen the end-to-end vaccine supply chain.

Strengthening the backbone of immunisation systems
Although vaccines are most visible at the point of delivery, effective forecasting and supply planning are what ensure consistent availability at clinics. The training thus reinforced demand estimation, procurement, and distribution coordination to reduce stockouts, overstocking, and wastage.

A growing regional pool of expertise
With the programme completed, the 20 participants join a growing network of certified trainers expected to cascade the knowledge to counterparts in their countries.