South Africa has finally paid the deposit that will secure the COVID-19 vaccine for 10% of the population.
The deadline to pay was the 15 December, an administration glitch from the Vaccine Alliance meant the money could not be paid.
The Health Department and the Solidarity Fund in a joint statement say the payment was made in line with the fund’s previous allocation of funds and commitment to support government’s efforts to accelerate the roll-out of vaccines in South Africa.
The Solidarity Fund paid the R283 million on Tuesday to the alliance in line with the fund’s previous allocation of money aimed at helping government to accelerate the roll-out of vaccines in South Africa.
Health Minister Dr Zweli Mkhize hailed the milestone as the epitome of excellence in health service delivery through multilateralism.
Mkhize says it is a privilege to oversee a process that has brought together government, international partners and business for the sole purpose of delivering quality health care to the people of South Africa. This is what we have been advocating for when we speak of multi-sectoral collaboration and it is gratifying to see this spirit being harnessed for the good of our people, Africans and the global village,”
Covax has confirmed South Africa’s entry into the facility. The down payment represents 15% of the total cost of securing access to vaccines for 10% (roughly 6 million) of the population. The country’s membership in the Covax facility ensures that South Africa receives its equitable share of the vaccine once it becomes available.
By Yazdaan Khan
Source:ewn.co.za
0 Comments