The Ministry of Health and Social Services on Monday received 100 620 Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine doses from the United States (US) government.

The donation which was made through the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation, forms part of the US global efforts to fight the COVID- 19 pandemic through its initiated programme pledge to provide at least 25 million of 80 million doses globally to Africa via its coordination with the African Union, Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and COVAX.

In her remarks while handing over the donation, US Chargé d’Affaires Jessica Long said the donation will help Namibians stay healthy and protected from COVID-19.

“Vaccines are safe and effective and I urge everyone that can to get vaccinated against COVID-19. These vaccines are part of the US commitment to support Namibia’s fight against the pandemic,” she said.

Long outlined that America has made a commitment to share US vaccine supply with the world, highlighting that America is proud to share its supply with Namibia.

Receiving the donation, Health and Social Services Minister Dr Kalumbi Shangula said the donation of Pfizer was an important addition in the portfolio of vaccines currently available in Namibia.

“Although we are seeing a downward trend in the number of new infections, hospitalisation and deaths, we are not out of the woods yet. Vaccination will help us to revive our economy and defeat COVID-19. It will help us flatten the curve and remain a step ahead of the pandemic,” Shangula stated.

The handover ceremony was witnessed by Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Jenelly Matundu and executive directors in the two ministries, Penda Naanda and Ben Nangombe.

Source: The Namibian Press Agency