Since the earliest days of the COVID-19 pandemic, FHI 360 has used data-driven strategies and implementation expertise to support response work in more than 60 countries. In Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, and Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, we worked directly with local health authorities and service delivery partners to increase uptake of COVID-19 vaccination among adults.
Using behavioral science tools and approaches, we identified what drives and prevents people from getting vaccinated. Based on this data, the COVID-19: Social Marketing and Behavioral Science Tools and Approaches project designed and delivered multichannel demand-creation campaigns to reach adults in Abidjan and Kinshasa, increasing vaccination coverage in both cities. In each city, we worked with a local partner to coordinate and conduct community engagement approaches to promote vaccination. We also worked to strengthen our partners’ capacity to implement these approaches and use data to reach vaccine-hesitant adults and connect them to services.
By addressing barriers and strengthening local capacity for COVID-19 response, we are implementing sustainable solutions to growing global health threats and continuing our work of advancing health and well-being.