Since the emergence of the new covid variant, many countries have kicked off vaccination campaigns. More so in Europe and America. They have even begun inoculating their populations. Similarly, Africa has taken on the same trend. However, accessing the vaccines has become a significant challenge. Countries like South Africa are confirming new cases of the variant on a daily basis, yet they have not kicked off the vaccination process. It is unfortunate that the virus might surge in many parts of Africa because of the delayed response.
Kagame Warns Over Delayed Immunization
Recently, Paul Kagame, the President of Rwanda, pointed out the nationalism of coronavirus vaccines. Mr. Kagame warned of global consequences in the future over delayed vaccination in Africa. He stated that delaying the vaccination in Africa’s poorest countries could undermine progress in human development. Nevertheless, equitable distribution of vaccines will benefit all, and it would reflect the growth of international trade in the future.
Kagame says that given the current situation in Africa, most underdeveloped countries may only afford the vaccines at affordable prices. More so as the pandemic has crippled their economies and increased dependency levels. States like the United Kingdom have promised to supply most African States with the vaccines. Nonetheless, the vaccines are taking too long to arrive.
Rwanda Awaits Covid Vaccines
Most covid vaccines are likely to arrive within the course of this month. Rwanda expects to receive its first shipment of AstraZeneca vaccines later this month under the World Health COVAX Program. They anticipate up to a million doses.
Nevertheless, states have learned to survive amid the pandemic. On Monday, Rwandan authorities permitted the reopening of businesses in the country’s capital. The decision comes in handy as their economy had experienced a plunge. And it happens that Rwanda is not the only state beginning to ease its lockdown restrictions; normalcy is slowly returning.
According to covid analysis in Rwanda, students have recorded the most number of infections since January first. That is so because of the reopening of schools. However, the situation is under control now with the stringent covid regulations of masking, sanitizing, and social distancing. Farmers, traders, health personnel, and teachers also recorded high rates of infections.
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Vaccine Controversies
Many issues have arisen following the distribution of vaccines. More so as the pharmaceuticals companies manufacturing these vaccines are stationed abroad. Developed countries like Germany, United Kingdom, China e.t.c all have access to these vaccines. Meanwhile, countries in Africa do not. African leaders have alleged that the rich countries are hoarding the vaccines. They are keeping extra vaccines at the expense of low- income countries. It is sure not the best move.
Some time back, President Cyril Ramaphosa condemned the European states for taking all the vaccines, leaving Africa with none. His statement came at a time when South Africa was recording surging cases of the new covid variant. Fortunately for the underdeveloped states, the World Health Organization and the COVAX Programme promises to avail them with vaccines.
