Turning the Tide on Childhood Vaccination
The Journey of a Local Imam and the Power of Theatre in Community Transformation
In the heart of Accra, Ghana, within the Fulani community of about 10,000 predominantly Muslim members, a profound transformation is unfolding. For years, traditional beliefs and reliance on spiritual health advisors, or 'mallams', have predominantly guided healthcare decisions, often sidelining modern medical practices like vaccination. However, a radical shift is taking place, spearheaded by Umar Farouk with the crucial aid of a compelling theatre piece.
As an imam and a librarian at the University of Ghana, Mr Farouk is very influential in the Adenta municipality. This year, he has become a vocal advocate for childhood vaccination, inspired by a powerful theatre production by Theatre for Social Change, within the framework of the Social and Behaviour Change interventions applied by UNICEF in Ghana. The health awareness drama, focusing on the power of vaccines, aimed to influence behavioural change across numerous communities throughout the country, bridging the gap created by social and cultural barriers that hinder sustainable progress.
In the case of Iman Farouk, the initiative struck a chord deeply. It illuminated a different perspective, previously obscured by vaccination myths and the reluctance of some community members to prioritise their families' health. “Since watching that drama, I have been sharing with the men in the community the importance of seeking medical care, including vaccinations which is in line with the teachings of Islam. I also urged them not to be stubborn when it comes to the health of their children” - he shared.
Mr Farouk’s newfound understanding, rooted in Islamic teachings about the importance of medication, prompted him to challenge the misconception that some diseases are spiritual. His engagement with subsequent plays by the Theatre for Change troupe has evolved into a community-wide movement, encouraging families to adopt a more informed approach to healthcare and tackling the stubbornness of some men towards vaccination.
“It's very clear that if you leave your child unvaccinated, it will lead to certain complications. Every father should show a keen interest in ensuring that their child receives all vaccinations religiously until it's done”
“Prevention is better than cure. Vaccination should be taken seriously. Every father should take good care of their children when they are young; that is the time they need our care. It will go a long way to save humans and our pockets. The perception is changing with time. Thanks to the drama and education it has changed a lot already”.
The once hesitant community is progressively embracing these health practices, securing a healthier future for their children. The drama productions, rich in visual and emotional elements, have been instrumental in this shift, encouraging parents, especially fathers, to actively participate in their children's well-being.
“The effect of these plays can be likened to a light being turned on in a room.” - observed Vanessa Adu-Darkwa, a health promotion officer from a health directorate responsible for the Fulani community. “The play not only presents challenges but also becomes a communal forum for open dialogues, dispelling myths, and fostering knowledge about the importance of vaccines.”
This initiative, facilitated by UNICEF with financial support of the Canada Global Initiative for Vaccine Equity is paving the way for a resilient and healthier future. UNICEF is working with partners, Theatre for Social Change and Ghana Health Service with support from Canada Global Initiative for Vaccine Equity to demonstrate the power of community-led change in public health.
