Dear colleagues,
Over the past several months, we have been working on an independent initiative called VaxPlan, a GIS-enabled, offline-first platform designed to support routine immunization microplanning and outreach service planning.
The idea emerged from a challenge that many countries continue to face: despite improvements in coverage monitoring and vaccine supply systems, the operational process of identifying communities, planning sessions, estimating targets, forecasting vaccines, and tracking implementation often remains fragmented across spreadsheets, paper forms, maps, and disconnected digital tools.
VaxPlan attempts to bring these functions together in a single platform by combining:
• GIS-based facility, community, and catchment mapping
• Routine immunization and campaign microplanning workflows
• Settlement intelligence using population and geospatial datasets
• Zero-dose and under-immunized community identification
• Vaccine forecasting and session planning
• Supportive supervision workflows
• Offline-first operation for low-connectivity environments
• DHIS2 and HL7 FHIR interoperability pathways
• Multi-country and Ministry-owned deployment options
One area we are particularly interested in exploring further is how geospatial intelligence can support the identification of missed settlements and improve planning for hard-to-reach populations.
We are sharing this with the TechNet community primarily to seek technical feedback rather than to promote a product.
We would greatly appreciate insights on:
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Existing country challenges that such a platform should address.
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Features that immunization programmes consider essential but are often overlooked.
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Experiences integrating GIS into routine immunization planning.
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Potential pilot opportunities in countries interested in strengthening microplanning processes.
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Recommendations for alignment with WHO, UNICEF, Gavi, RED/REC, RED-Q, IA2030, and related guidance.
The platform currently includes a transparent standards-alignment framework that maps implemented functionality against key immunization and digital health guidance, but we are certain there are gaps and opportunities for improvement.
If you are interested in reviewing the platform or sharing technical feedback, we would be grateful for your thoughts.
Our goal is simple:
Reach every child. Plan every session.
Thank you in advance for your feedback and suggestions.
— Lawrence Mukombo
Disclaimer: VaxPlan is an independent initiative developed in my personal capacity. Any views expressed are my own and do not necessarily represent those of my employer or affiliated organizations.