Kenya launched a national vaccination campaign from July 5 to July 14, 2025, targeting children between 9 months and 14 years for typhoid and measles-rubella vaccines. This campaign is supported by the World Health Organization and Gavi, aiming to protect more than 15 million children across the country.
The government explained that rising cases of antimicrobial-resistant typhoid and measles outbreaks made the vaccination necessary. Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale and other officials emphasized that these vaccines are safe and can protect children for several years.
According to them, the campaign will also fill gaps in immunization that could lead to more deaths and infections. Despite the government’s assurance, some Kenyans are worried.
A TikTok video shared by a user called Kathomi sparked debate online after being posted by @KenyanSays on X.
In the video, Kathomi questioned why international organizations like WHO and Gavi were funding the campaign, calling it a red flag. She said the vaccines could be dangerous and even claimed that past vaccine campaigns, like the COVID-19 one, had caused harmful side effects. She argued that natural immunity is stronger and accused the government of using African children as experiments, warning people not to trust free vaccines.
Kathomi’s message received mixed reactions. Some agreed with her, saying that nothing free from the West can be trusted. One user wrote that Africans are always targeted with so-called free solutions that have a hidden cost.
Others strongly disagreed and defended the campaign. A user named @ObaraBrian said such claims were dangerous and could cause more harm. He pointed out that diseases like polio are returning in countries where vaccination has gone down and reminded people that vaccines save lives.
Government health experts explained that the Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine protects children for up to five years with just one shot. The measles-rubella vaccine is also important because measles has killed 18 children in Kenya between January 2024 and February 2025, and infected nearly 3,000 more.
Health Director General Patrick Amoth added that the typhoid vaccine is especially important in areas with poor sanitation, where children are at high risk.
Even with the scientific backing, Kathomi’s video shows that public trust is still low in some areas. Some parents remain scared because of past problems with vaccines and the way information is shared.
Experts say that the only way to build trust is by being honest, open, and making sure that any concerns from the public are taken seriously. They also suggest more education at the community level, so people understand why vaccines are important and how they work.
While official data supports the campaign, concerns like Kathomi’s cannot be ignored. They show that the government must work harder to communicate clearly and respectfully with the public.
People need accurate information to make the right decisions for their children. The campaign might be a step in the right direction, but it also shows the need for better communication and transparency if Kenya wants to protect its children and avoid future health problems.
