Community members in the Oshana Region responded to the just-ended HPV vaccination campaign with mixed feelings.

HPV refers to the human papillomavirus that causes cervical cancer, which has become prevalent among women.

The campaign aimed to raise awareness and vaccinate girls aged 9 to 14.

The HPV vaccination campaign started on the 4th of August and ended on Friday, the 15th of August.

Despite prior mobilisation and community awareness efforts in the region, which included engaging school principals, traditional leaders, church leaders, and community members, the directorate still failed to meet the campaign's targets.

"I would say that we did not reach the target we expected, but we did something, and we know that as time goes on, as we continue engaging and sensitising, giving the correct information, more people will come forth," said Regional Health Director Johanna Haimene.

She added that regardless of the low turnout, the directorate remains optimistic and will continue to engage the public at the Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair as a new campaign strategy to reach a larger number of community members.

"Hopefully, we are going to attract more people, as we are going to engage many people there, share information with the community, and be onsite vaccinating from the trade fair platform."