Enhancing AEFI Reporting in Zimbabwe: Dissemination of VigiMobile App and VigiFlow Evaluation Findings
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by
AFENET
On April 16, 2025, key stakeholders convened in Harare, Zimbabwe, for a dissemination meeting to share findings from the evaluation of the VigiMobile app and the enhanced VigiFlow system for Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI) reporting. The evaluation was supported technically and financially by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Led by the Zimbabwe Field Epidemiology Training Program (ZimFETP), in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC), the African Field Epidemiology Network (AFENET), and the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ), the assessment aimed to determine the effectiveness of digital tools in strengthening AEFI surveillance.
Ms. T. Juru, Assistant Field Coordinator for ZimFETP, and Mr. Tendai Nyambiya, a qualitative expert, presented both quantitative and qualitative findings. Their presentations highlighted notable improvements in reporting metrics, including increased reporting rates and timeliness. However, the evaluation also revealed mixed results in data completeness and validity, pointing to the need for continuous training and mentorship of health workers.
Key challenges identified included:
- Limited internet connectivity;
- Low confidence among users in reporting AEFI cases;
- Fear of repercussions;
- High staff turnover;
- Insufficient post-training support.
Second-year FETP residents also showcased their research on AEFI surveillance. While their findings demonstrated strong knowledge of AEFI among healthcare workers, the research noted a gap between knowledge and practice, with some adverse events remaining unreported and persistent issues in data quality.
The meeting recognized the critical contributions of several partners, including Dr. John Kamulegeya (AFENET), Dr. Prisca Nyambayo (MCAZ), Mrs. Nyaradzai Chiwara (MoHCC Director of Nursing Services), Dr. Notion Gombe (Regional Technical Coordinator, AFENET Southern Africa), and Dr. Richard. Makurumidze (Director, ZimFETP).
Dr. Jane Gidudu joined virtually and delivered closing remarks, applauding participants for their dedication and encouraging the implementation of recommended action points.
The dissemination meeting concluded with stakeholders reaffirming their commitment to addressing identified gaps and strengthening AEFI reporting and surveillance systems in Zimbabwe.
