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Minister of Health, Zweli Mkhize
South Africa finally made its initial payment for the Covax vaccine program, after losing payment more than once, sparking public outcry.
Earlier this week, Health Minister Zweli Mkhize attributed the delays to administrative issues. South Africa has been struggling with a second wave of Covid-19 cases, reporting 8,789 cases on Monday, bringing the total number of infections to 930,711 since the start of the outbreak.
On Tuesday, the National Health Department together with the Solidarity Fund announced the country’s initial payment of R283 million to the international vaccine alliance, Gavi. The payment is 15% of the total cost of the vaccine program and will allow 10% of South Africans (6 million people) to be vaccinated.
The department’s director general, Dr. Sandile Buthelezi, said in a statement: “I would like … to take this opportunity to thank the Solidarity Fund for providing the financial support that has enabled the country to meet initial payment obligations as is required in the terms of the agreement. “
Buthelezi explained that the department will make additional payments for the Covax program next year, within its next deadlines.
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