In the remote and rugged landscape of Naryn, Kyrgyzstan, where access to healthcare itself is often a solo journey, a dedicated man stands tall in the face of hardship. Meet Zidekul Ilisbayeva, a beacon of hope and resilience in a region where health services are sparse and far apart.
This documentary photo story delves into the life and work of Zyidekul Risbayeva, an elder who lives in Naryn, Kyrgyzstan's most mountainous region, and embodies the spirit of service and compassion. Despite the logistical hurdles in reaching this hard-to-reach region of Kyrgyzstan, Zhidekul Ilisbayeva remains tirelessly dedicated to the well-being of her community.
Part-time healthcare worker and full-time health advocate Zhidekul Risbayeva's mission extends beyond the medical station. She is playing an important role in protecting the lives of her fellow Kyrgyzstans, with a special focus on vaccinations. Through her efforts, she not only administers vaccines, but also educates and empowers her community about the importance of vaccination.
This documentary photo series highlights Kyrgyzstan's continuous efforts in the field of vaccination and immunization, with the support of the World Health Organization (WHO) and other allies. For more than 50 years, expanded immunization programs have been a cornerstone of WHO's European Region, of which Kyrgyzstan is part. 2024 also marks his 30th anniversary of Kyrgyzstan's National Immunization Program, a massive public health initiative that has saved countless lives and strengthened generations against preventable diseases.
Through their dedication and the power of vaccines, Zhidekul Risbayeva and her colleagues not only saved lives but also laid the foundation for a healthier and more resilient future in Kyrgyzstan and beyond.
Health projects co-funded by the European Union are currently being implemented in Kyrgyzstan and four other Central Asian republics: Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. The project includes support from the Ministry of Health on vaccination and supply chain logistics, risk communication and community engagement, and capacity building of health professionals to meet the goals and objectives of the European Immunization Agenda 2030 We will pave the way for you to do so.
A short version of this photo essay was published here during European Immunization Week. Reprinted with permission.