Health Correspondent

...as Zim receives 500 000 COVID-19 doses from China

Zimbabwe yesterday took delivery of 500 000 COVID-19 doses from China as the country inches closer to herd immunity.

The 500 000 Sinopharm doses were received at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport by Vice President and Minister of Health and Child Care, Dr Constantino Chiwenga.

Addressing journalists after receiving the doses, Vice President Chiwenga applauded China for being an all-weather friend that stood with Zimbabwe in its fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I’m pleased that to date, Zimbabwe has received a total donation of one million vaccines from the People’s Republic of China. As a Ministry, we applaud the consistency with the People’s Republic of China as it has complimented our efforts to fight and conquer this dreaded virus.

“Since the devastating pandemic was first reported in this country on 20 March 2020, China has been generously providing both technical and material assistance to augment our own efforts as a country,” said Vice President Chiwenga.

Speaking at the same occasion, the Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Guo Shaochun said that the 500 000 does would be another boost to Zimbabwe’s national vaccination programme. He added that the doses would bring protection to more people and bring more places closer to herd immunity.

“In the face of this pandemic, China and Zimbabwe have fought side by side, from personal protective equipment (PPEs) to public health strategies and health professionals,” said Ambassador Guo.

As of yesterday, a total of 3 037 013 people had been vaccinated against COVID-19 and more are expected to be vaccinated soon as the country continues to buy and receive donations of doses to boost its vaccination programme.