VICE President Constantino Chiwenga has cleared air on the modalities surrounding the rollout and distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine which he says will be free of charge for every citizen.
By Michael Gwarisa
Briefing a World Cancer Day virtual meeting this morning, VP Chiwenga who is also the health and child care minister said, the vaccine was for everyone who wishes to be vaccinated and it was free of charge. His remarks come hot on the heels of a statement by the Finance and Economic Development minister, Prof Mthuli Ncube who told a local publication that citizens were going to pay for the vaccine.
The COVID-19 pandemic has continued to claim a huge toll of causalities, with tectonic effects on global security. The onset of Coronavirus on the continent of Africa was gradual. However, the emergence of new strains of the deadly Coronavirus accelerated the progression of a second wave at the close of the year 2020 and beginning of year 2021.
“Consequently, an upward trend in confirmed cases, active cases and deaths were recorded in Zimbabwe. In response to the growing threat to Public health, the government of Zimbabwe forged synergies with friendly states, Civil society Organisation, strategic partners, corporates and the generality of our Zimbabweans to combat the pandemic. We welcome and are very grateful to the People’ Republic of China for their donation of the COVID-19 vaccine to Zimbabwe. The landmark gesture will achieve a milestone in combating the pandemic.
“Furthermore, the government of Zimbabwe embarked on a deliberate programme to acquire more COVID-19 vaccines. My fellow Zimbabweans, let me also reiterate that government of Zimbabwe will rollout COVID-19 vaccines for free to all citizens who may wish to be vaccinated. The policy is inspired by humane morals that Life should not be bought,” said VP Chiwenga.
The Finance Minister has however issued a statement saying his comments were taken out of context.
“I would like to make it clear that vaccines that the government is procuring with support of our international partners and friends, will be made available free to the citizens of Zimbabwe,” said Porf Ncube.
