The Otjikaoko Traditional Authority in Opuwo has expressed its full support for the ongoing polio vaccination campaign in the Kunene Region, calling on community members to work closely with the government to ensure its success.

The campaign will be conducted in two rounds, with the first scheduled for 26 to 29 January and the second from 24 to 27 February 2026.

In an interview with Nampa on Friday, Chief Kavari Muharukua of the Otjikaoko Traditional Authority said the leadership is committed to spreading awareness about the campaign and encouraged parents and caregivers to take their children to be vaccinated.

He explained that the traditional authority was informed about the campaign through discussions with leadership at the Opuwo State Hospital, who approached them to help relay the information to the community.

Muharukua, however, said various challenges may affect the vaccination drive, particularly in remote areas. He said due to low rainfall in parts of the region, some families were forced to move with their livestock in search of better grazing, making it difficult for healthcare teams to find children who need to be vaccinated.

He urged residents to bring their children to areas where the Ministry of Health teams are carrying out the vaccinations.