Timor-Leste took a major step in its fight against cervical cancer with the launch of the HPV vaccine in July 2024. Building on that momentum, the country has now set a remarkable precedent with a swift national rollout of the vaccine.
In just three weeks, starting on September 23, the Ministry of Health in collaboration with WHO, UNICEF and other partners vaccinated an impressive 56,350 girls aged 11-14—just shy of the target of 62,000 girls. This incredible achievement was driven by the dedication of health workers and the collective support of young girls, teachers, parents, and communities across the country.
Eldina do Rego gets vaccinated at her school, EBC Remanaru at Laclo in Manatutu
Meet Eldina do S. Rego (14), a student who woke up earlier than usual—at 5 AM— this week to prepare for a special day. “I’m a little afraid of the needle, but I know it’s the best way to protect my health as a girl.” Eldina’s school was part of the Ministry of Health’s strategic approach to delivering the HPV vaccine through schools.
For Jesuinha do Rego, the message came from Sunday mass. “My parents encouraged me to get the vaccine after learning about it in church,” she said. “They explained us about cervical cancer and how the vaccine would protect us.”
Agustina Maria with her grandmother post vaccination.
In Liquica, Agustina Maria de Jesus sat nervously with her classmates, waiting for her turn. Outside, her grandmother waited in quiet solidarity, having heard about the vaccine at a parent-teacher meeting. “The only shot I’ve ever taken was for COVID, but I want my granddaughter protected from cervical cancer,” Agustina’s grandmother said, expressing her support for the cause of elimination of cervical cancer.
Doctor arrived in EBC Remanaru, Laclo, Manatuto
Health officials and community leaders, including elders and local church heads, reassured families about the vaccine’s safety. Open conversations—sometimes in closed classrooms—helped fathers and other family members feel comfortable discussing sensitive aspects.
A doctor from Laclo health center explains the benefits of taking the vaccine prior to the start of immunization drive at the EBC Remanaru School, Laclo, Manatuto Municipality.
Teachers and health workers partnered to lead informational sessions in schools and communities, answering questions and dispelling myths. Parent-teacher meetings, like the one Agustina’s family attended, became a critical platform for such dialogues. "Parents arrived with a blend of curiosity and concern,” said Adriana Maria Olo, the acting head of EBC 1.2 Maumeta School. Questions ranged from the vaccine’s impact on fertility to concerns about menstrual health.
Vaccinator Zulmira Cabral on her way to Remanaru School carrying the vaccine box.
The commitment of health workers to overcoming challenging terrain, distance, and even bad weather, played an essential role in the campaign’s success. “The road is indeed a challenge, but it’s rewarding to be part of this effort. We are helping secure the future of our girls and our country,” said health worker Zulmira Cabral, echoing the sentiment of many on the ground. .jpg?sfvrsn=2965ce90_1)
As part of preparation, Ministry of Health and WHO trained nearly 1,700 health workers across all levels to ensure the vaccine rollout was as seamless as possible.
Vaccinator Zulmira Cabral gives a high five to Eldina Rego after the vaccination.
As Lovely da Costa, a 14-year-old student from Escola Café Manatuto, put it, “We are thankful to the government for providing this vaccine free of charge. It’s important for our health and our future.”
“This nationwide vaccination effort was not just a medical initiative, it was a community movement, powered by collaboration, dialogue, and determination across ministries and departments,” said Dr Arvind Mathur, WHO Representative. Led by the Government of Timor-Leste, the campaign is being supported by key partners, including the WHO, Gavi (the Vaccine Alliance), UNICEF, and the Australian Government.