Polio's last strongholds: Why Pakistan and Afghanistan can’t defeat the virus
The vaccine works. So why is wild polio still spreading in just two countries and what can India’s own victory teach us?
In a statement on World Polio Day, UAE Minister of Health and Prevention Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh highlighted the country's delivery of over 850 million polio vaccine doses in Pakistan since 2014. This humanitarian endeavor, carried out under the leadership of UAE's wise governance, reflects the nation's commitment to global health initiatives and its success in eradicating polio within its borders.
Al Sayegh emphasized that President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's contributions, totaling $525 million, are crucial to ensuring a polio-free future for children worldwide. The UAE Polio Vaccination Campaign, a vital part of these efforts, has reached remote and underserved areas to vaccinate every child. In December 2025, the Mohamed bin Zayed Foundation for Humanity, in collaboration with the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, hosted a global pledging event in Abu Dhabi, where nearly $1.9 billion in international pledges were announced.
These commitments underscore the importance of international partnerships in accelerating global polio eradication efforts. UAE's commitment to this cause is further reinforced by the effective contributions of Dubai Humanitarian and eHealth Africa, which have played pivotal roles in supporting vaccination campaigns and laboratory supplies in various countries.
Since 1992, the UAE has maintained a polio-free status thanks to strong health policies and integrated immunization programs, showcasing the nation's advanced health capabilities and preparedness.
Written by urgent.news from Gulf News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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