The Voice of Community Leaders Against Polio
Unity and Commitment Are the Forces That Safeguard the Future of Thousands of Children
Paktika, Afghanistan – The tribal leaders of Yosuf Khel District in Paktika province play a significant role in safeguarding children’s health.
The efforts of leaders from Barat Khel, Demast, Ghaibi Khel, and other villages in the district have not only contributed to the success of polio vaccination campaigns, but have also had a profound impact on changing public perceptions in the community.
The efforts of these leaders build new trust every day for a safer future for children.
The Daily Efforts of Community Leaders
Haji Mohammad Iqbal, a tribal leader from Barat Khel village, is regarded among the people as a symbol of trust and respect.
At the break of dawn, he joins the vaccination team, going door to door to safeguard children’s futures and encouraging parents to vaccinate their children.
He says: “Our children are our future. If we do not vaccinate them today, tomorrow they may be paralyzed and become a burden on society. It is our responsibility to protect their lives.”
Haji Sabir, an elder and spiritual figure from Demast village, conveys the importance of vaccination to people through various means.
He speaks about the value of polio and other vaccines in social gatherings, weddings, and even family events.
“Polio has no cure. The only way to prevent it is vaccination. It is our duty to encourage people and reassure them that vaccines are safe,” he says.
Tribal leaders of Yosuf Khel District in Paktika province play a significant role in safeguarding children’s health © Polio Free Afghanistan / 2025
The Power of Practical Example
Haji Samiullah and Khan Mohammad are two other tribal leaders from the area who, through their influence, encourage families to vaccinate their children.
They vaccinate their own children and, by setting a practical example, show others how valuable these small drops are for the future of children.
Khan Mohammad says: “When people saw that our children were healthy, they were convinced to vaccinate their own as well.”
Signs of Trust
The impact of tribal leaders’ efforts in the villages is now clearly visible.
In remote areas, vaccination coverage has expanded, and awareness has replaced people’s misconceptions about polio.
Afghanistan remains one of only two countries in the world where the poliovirus still exists.
Two positive cases have been recorded this year, underscoring the need for serious and sustained efforts to eradicate the disease.
In these circumstances, the role of tribal leaders like those of Yosuf Khel takes on special significance — as they can change people’s minds and expand vaccination coverage.
Hasanullah, a resident of Demast village, shares his experience: “At first, I was doubtful about the vaccine, but when Haji Sabir gave us accurate information, my perception changed. Now, I vaccinate my children in every campaign.”
A young health worker, Samiullah, also praises the role of leaders: “When tribal leaders stand beside us, people are convinced more quickly. Their genuine and sincere efforts create an atmosphere of trust and confidence — and this is vital for protecting children’s lives.”
A meeting between tribal leaders and polio vaccination campaign workers in Yosuf Khel District © Polio Free Afghanistan / 2025
Inspiring Leaders
The story of the leaders of Yosuf Khel shows that community leadership is the most powerful force for change. Their efforts have protected the lives of thousands of children from polio and paralysis.
They are not only tribal leaders but also guardians of the next generation.
Through their honesty, trust, and commitment, they have proven that leaders can change the course of a community.
Their efforts have not only ensured the success of vaccination campaigns, but have also dispelled doubts from people’s minds and safeguarded the lives of thousands of children from lifelong paralysis.
Today, the leaders of Yosuf Khel stand as a living example of the saying that when leaders rise with honesty and commitment, every community finds a brighter path to the future.
