From Hesitancy to Hope: How Rahma is Building Vaccine Trust in Afar

In the arid, remote stretches of Mille Woreda in Ethiopia’s Afar Region, 28-year-old Rahma Jemal walks from village to village, not with fanfare, but with quiet determination. As a Health Extension Worker at Mille Health Center, Rahma delivers essential primary healthcare services, including COVID-19 vaccinations. But for her, the mission goes beyond medical care; it’s about rebuilding trust in health systems and bringing health equity to the hardest-to-reach communities.

One of Rahma’s biggest challenges is vaccine hesitancy. “Some people in my community often resist getting the COVID-19 vaccine,” she explains. “To build trust, I led by example. I got vaccinated in front of them, then vaccinated others. That simple act gave people confidence.”

Through the Saving Lives and Livelihoods (SLL) Phase II project, funded by the Mastercard Foundation via Africa CDC and implemented by Amref Health Africa in Ethiopia, Rahma received targeted training on integrated vaccination campaigns. This not only deepened her technical knowledge but also boosted her advocacy and communication skills.

Reaching remote households, however, comes with logistical challenges, from rough terrain to intense heat. Thanks to the SLL project, Rahma and other frontline health workers received critical logistical support, including transportation, helping them access hard-to-reach communities.

“I usually face strong challenges from the arid landscape and harsh weather,” she shares. “But now, I’m able to reach more people, safely and consistently.”

Rahma is one of over 6,000 health workers trained under SLL Phase II, contributing to the vaccination of 30,000+ individuals across 50 districts in four regions. Her story reflects how trusted, well-supported community health workers are key to driving vaccine confidence and improving preparedness for future pandemics.

Globally, COVID-19 vaccines are estimated to have saved 14.4 million lives (WHO). Yet, vulnerable populations, like older adults, those with underlying conditions, and health workers, remain at risk. The adapted SLL Phase II project continues to address these gaps by investing in frontline health workers under a broader health systems strengthening approach.

Rahma’s dream is clear: “To eliminate all vaccine-preventable diseases in my community by ensuring no one is left behind.”

Her journey reminds us that real change doesn’t just come from high-level policies, it begins with people like Rahma, working tirelessly in their communities, powered by knowledge, trust, and purpose.

Authors: Betebebu Mulugeta – Knowledge Management Coordinator, SLL Phase II project, Amref Health Africa in Ethiopia and David Mitine – Communications Officer, Global Health Security Unit