Fathullah and the Fight Against Polio
“When the community stands behind you, you are not just a worker; you are a champion of change.”
Maidan Wardak, Afghanistan – In Zulqadah village of Chak District, Maidan Wardak province, a young man has taken on an important mission: preventing the poliovirus.
The young man is 28-year-old Fathullah, who administers the polio vaccine to children in this village. He carries out this work not as a job, but as a social responsibility.
Not Just a Job, a Mission
Every morning, Fathullah walks through the mountainous paths and quiet landscapes of his village to reach the Beksamand sub-health center, where he fights an invisible enemy—one that cannot be seen, but leaves children permanently paralyzed.
“I carry out this mission as a responsibility and for the sake of pleasing Allah,” he says. “It is not just a job, but a duty that rests on my shoulders.”
Along the way, Fathullah has faced many challenges, such as misconceptions among the community, low levels of awareness, and cultural barriers. But he remains determined and continues his work with unwavering commitment.
Fathullah administers the polio vaccine to a child at the health center © Polio Free Afghanistan / 2025
Public Awareness; Anytime, Anywhere
Fathullah’s efforts know no limits of time or place. In addition to administering polio vaccines, he also works to change people’s perceptions and attitudes.
He is prepared to carry out this duty at anytime and anyplace—whether in the market, at the mosque, or during any other community gathering.
“I always try to explain the importance of preventing polio to people,” he says. “I believe that only public awareness can eliminate this disease.”
Community Support
The village’s religious scholars and elders praise Fathullah’s efforts and regard his work as highly valuable.
Abdul Qayum, the imam of the mosque in the Beksamand valley, says:
“Fathullah is protecting our village’s children from a dangerous fate. His fight is for their healthy future, and all villagers should stand with him.”
Lal Mohammad, a village elder and retired colonel, shares the same view. “In times of conflict, vaccinators couldn’t come to our village,” he says. “Now that there is security, we must take advantage of this opportunity and vaccinate our children. Fathullah is a blessing for the community, and we should support him.”
Fathullah with vaccinated children from the village © Polio Free Afghanistan / 2025
One Message, One Goal
Fathullah calls on religious scholars, local leaders, and youth to join the fight against polio and not allow this disease to leave children with permanent disability; or worse, take their lives.
“When the community shows unity and support, the fight against polio becomes even stronger. I believe this struggle will succeed, and that one day, Afghanistan will be free from the threat of the poliovirus.”
